03/29/2024

Wales News Online

Local & National News for Wales

Neil Hamilton calls for more financial support for young farmers

NEIL Hamilton, MS for Mid & West Wales, and Leader of UKIP Wales is calling for more financial support for young farmers in Wales.

Mr Hamilton, a member of the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs committee, is backing the Farmers’ Union of Wales who want more funds for Young Farmers clubs.
He said:

“It is absolutely vital that the Welsh Labour Government appreciates the importance of Wales YFC and ensures funding is available to help them to carry on with their excellent work post Covid.

“I have always been an enthusiastic supporter of Welsh farmers and strongly believe, now more than ever, it is important to continue to encourage more young people to be involved in our agricultural industry.

“I was very disappointed to learn about funding cuts made by councils in Wales to Young Farmer Clubs.  In particular during these challenging times, they carry out vital work within our communities.

“Agriculture is a major part of the economy in rural Wales, and it is vitally important that young people are encouraged to develop their ideas and support others.  The future of farming depends on these generations carrying on the fine traditions of the industry.”

Farmers’ Union of Wales President Glyn Roberts has stressed the importance of the Wales YFC at the virtual Welsh Labour Party Spring Conference.

Speaking at a fringe meeting recently, the Union President stressed that whilst financial support for the Urdd was welcome, the Young Farmers clubs in Wales must not be left out.

Speaking after the event, he said: “Whilst we welcome and appreciate the funding made available for the Urdd as part of the Welsh Government ‘recover and rebuild’ strategy, our young farmers clubs across Wales must not be left out.

“Indeed they deserve to be recognised for their efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic in keeping spirits high among their members through all the virtual events and meetings they have held.”

The FUW has previously voiced its disappointment at funding cuts made by councils in Wales to Young Farmer Clubs and Mr Roberts was clear that the Wales YFC must not be left behind as the country rebuilds itself after Covid.

“The service the YFC movement provides is invaluable. The work they do in helping and supporting young people to become successful farmers, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens, can’t be praised enough.”

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