Edwin Poots intervenes to calm fears over loam soil crisis in Ulster cricket

Special clay-containing material known as loam is obtained from counties in England to give the ball a predictable bounce on the pitch.

There had been fears that thanks to post-Brexit bureaucracy, the loam would be among the range of goods that would be subject to checks between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

However Mr Poots, who visited Lisburn Cricket Club on Wednesday to hear the concerns of officials, has moved to allay the fears of loam suppliers and cricket clubs here.

“Despite recent comments and media reports, I can confirm that Loam products, because of their low risk, are not regulated and therefore can be moved from GB to NI free from SPS requirements,” said Mr Poots.

“Unfortunately, recent commentary has caused a lot of unnecessary concern amongst the cricketing family, but I am pleased to add some clarity to the matter.”

Surrey Loam is a manufactured product used for stabilising cricket pitch wickets, usually at the end of the season.

The product is clay and sand based and is not capable of harbouring quarantine union pests. Mr Poots said this means it does not come under the official control requirements that apply to soil when presented as a growing medium.

The minister continued: “I acknowledge the UKG announcement of 4 March, providing easements on the wider movement of soil as a growing medium, enabling the movement of bulbs, vegetables and containerised plants within the horticulture sector.

“This will provide some welcome breathing space for businesses, however it is clear that the Northern Ireland Protocol continues to cause concern among NI businesses, and I will continue to push the UK Government and EU to find permanent solutions to the issues it presents.”