The Winter Fair is an important event to showcase the best of
rural Wales and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing
the agriculture sector especially in responding to the climate
and nature emergencies, Rural Affairs Minister has said.
The Minister will be at the showground in Llanelwedd today and
has reiterated the climate and nature emergencies are the biggest
threat to the agriculture sector and has emphasised the important
role farmers have to play.
The Minister said: “It is great to be back in Llanelwedd after a
very enjoyable Royal Welsh Show in the summer.
“The Winter Fair provides an important opportunity to discuss
agricultural issues, especially in how we respond to the climate
and nature emergencies.
“We have a fantastic and committed agricultural sector and for
the sake of our communities, our future generations, and the
sustainability of the industry, we simply cannot delay responding
to these emergencies. There are already visible effects, and we
must act.
“Food production is at great risk if we don’t take action and
farmers have an essential role to play in meeting the challenges
ahead. There are several measures which can be taken, and we will
continue to support farmers to meet these challenges and embrace
new opportunities.
“I have always been clear about the importance of working
together and this is vital if we are to achieve our shared
goals.”
The Minister has also acknowledged the difficult financial
situation will be one of the points of discussion at this year’s
Winter Fair.
She said: “I have been clear this is the toughest financial
position we have faced since devolution.
“Leaving the European Union has removed a level of certainty and
next month sees the end of EU spending as the Rural Development
Programme comes to an end.
“However, we remain absolutely committed to supporting our rural
communities and helping them succeed into the future.
“I hope everyone enjoys the Winter Fair and I look forward to
seeing new and familiar faces in Llanelwedd.”
People attending the Winter Fair are being encouraged to visit
the Welsh Government’s stand which will be open for both days of
the event.
Based in the South Glamorgan Hall, information will be available
on the Sustainable Farming Scheme, the Woodland Creation Scheme,
agricultural pollution, preventing avian influenza and the
support Farming Connect can offer farmers.
