The reality of factory farming in NI
In 2013, DAERA launched its Going for Growth strategy, which prioritised increasing intensive factory farming. The results are stark: Northern Ireland now ranks among the top ten regions in the UK for indoor-reared livestock, with County Tyrone and County Antrim holding fifth and eighth place, respectively.
Poultry megafarms (housing 40,000+ birds) more than doubled between 2011 and 2017, with nearly 50 housing over 80,000 chickens.
Mega farms (over 40,000 birds, 2,000 pigs, or 750 breeding sows) have grown significantly:
| County | Mega Farms 2012 | Mega Farms 2017 | Mega Farms 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Antrim | 21 | 60 | 59 |
| County Armagh | 32 | 46 | 47 |
| County Derry/L’derry | 9 | 14 | 15 |
| County Down | 13 | 30 | 24 |
| County Fermanagh | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| County Tyrone | 72 | 93 | 91 |
| Total | 148 | 245 | 237 |
Behind closed doors, animals endure unimaginable conditions: barren cages, cramped sheds, and feedlots that prevent natural behaviors. They are denied sunlight, fresh air, and space to move freely - all for the sake of profit.
USPCA calls for change
The USPCA is urging the government to:
- Phase out factory farming by 2050, setting a clear target to protect animals and the environment.
- Invest in nature and climate-friendly farming practices that prioritise sustainability.
- Review planning legislation to ensure due consideration for animal welfare and climate impacts before approving intensive farm developments.Halt
- Planning permissions for new mega-farms while an independent review is conducted.
How you can help
Members of the public can help drive change by choosing higher-welfare or plant-based food options, sharing the realities of factory farming to raise awareness, contacting their local representatives to push for stronger protections, and supporting local farmers who prioritise animal welfare and environmentally friendly practices.
