10/01/2026
Bumped into these two familiar faces today at the Redhouse Holsteins Open Day. It was brilliant to catch up and, as always, put the world to rights.
Over the past 14 months, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know Robbie Butler, and I can unreservedly say he has been a breath of fresh air to politics and to Northern Ireland agriculture since taking the chair of the AERA Committee in October 2024.
We’ve worked together on a number of issues, and Robbie has answered the phone at times when many others wouldn’t. He has worked relentlessly to gain a true, on-the-ground understanding of what’s really happening on farms, listening to farmers and striving to create practical solutions to ensure farming in Northern Ireland has the future it deserves.
Robbie is possibly the most un-politician-like politician I’ve ever met — an honest, hardworking family man who genuinely wants the best for everyone. He works tirelessly behind the scenes, modestly and without seeking recognition or publicity.
He was my first port of call when I became aware of the ‘Dairy is Scary’ campaign running in cinemas across the UK. He acted immediately, contacting the Advertising Standards Authority before I’d even finished providing all the information.
I’ve also mentioned, in passing, the plight of farmers dealing with TB, and Robbie hasn’t stopped there — visiting yards himself to see firsthand the devastating impact TB is having across our industry.
Northern Ireland farmers, we have a great friend in Robbie Butler. He wants to learn, he wants to listen, and he wants to make a difference.
The headlines have been rife this week regarding the UUP leadership race and politics aside, what stands out for me is Robbie’s commitment to agriculture and to the people behind it. It’s been a privilege to engage with someone who genuinely listens, follows their words with actions and long may it continue 👏🏼
