At a face-to-face meeting in Cardiff, the Union was pleased to meet with the Minister and used the opportunity to raise with her those issues of greatest concern to its members.
This most recent meeting was an opportunity for the union to discuss the Rural Development Programme, Glastir contracts, the Agriculture Bill, Sustainable Farming Scheme and also bovine TB – all areas that are a high priority for our members.
Rural Development Programme
We stressed to the Minister the importance of ensuring the remaining Rural Development Programme funds are spent before the end of the budget term (December 2023). We highlighted that funds for infrastructure projects would be beneficial for our members, especially with the escalated costs of raw materials.
Glastir
We asked for current Glastir contracts to be extended beyond the end of this year. We stressed the importance of ensuring no cliff-edge for farmers at the end of the contract term. We need a smooth transition to ensure all the great environmental work that is taking place on farm can be maintained.
Agriculture Bill
We discussed the progress of the Agriculture Bill, which looks likely to become law by the summer. We had an exchange of views and ideas on the bill, and areas where we think it could be improved.
Sustainable Farming Scheme
We discussed where Welsh Government is up to with the progress of the scheme, due to be in place from 2025.
We raised the concerns of our members over the 10% tree cover proposal, especially for farms where the topography or location means trees won’t grow, and for farmers with areas of SSSI, as well as the concern of land devaluation and the issues for tenant farmers.
While some farms may be able to meet this target, it will be very difficult for others. We continue to push for a workable solution on this matter.
Bovine TB
The Minister referenced the forthcoming statement on the Refreshed TB Eradication Programme that she will make to the Senedd on the 28 March. NFU Cymru once again highlighted the severe impact that bovine TB breakdowns are having on Welsh farmers and farming businesses.
We also discussed the recommendations made by the NFU Cymru TB Focus Group.