NFU Cymru does not stand alone in fight to save Tir Mynydd

NFU Cymru has had agreement from organisations including the Countryside Council for Wales, National Trust Wales and the National Parks that abandoning the Tir Mynydd scheme, without an agreed successor, runs the risk of jeopardising sustainability of these fragile areas which, whilst physically handicapped, are highly valued by both the indigenous population and tourists.

NFU Cymru organised yesterday's meeting at the Union's Headquarters in Builth Wells with Snowdonia National Park, the Brecon Beacons National Park, National Trust Wales and the CCW, all of whom have a direct interest in the future of Wales' hill and upland areas.

The parties represented at the meeting agreed that the current Tir Mynydd Scheme contributed positively in terms of social, economic, environmental and cultural sustainability and was entirely consistent with the 'Farming for the Future' agenda set by the Welsh Assembly Government.

NFU Cymru President, Dai Davies said, "I have been much encouraged by the discussions held with the CCW, the National Trust and the National Parks which illustrates that the industry does not stand alone on this crucial issue which will determine the future of Wales' LFAs.

"There is a commitment and determination to work together to secure a viable future for the communities in these areas and I hope that together we will be able to influence the Assembly's agenda."

There was shared concerns that doing away with the Tir Mynydd Scheme - one of the two options put forward by the Welsh Assembly Government - had the potential to undermine participation in agri-environment schemes since many of these farms would not be viable without LFA support delivered under the terms of the Tir Mynydd Scheme and also about how the Welsh uplands would be managed if farming was no longer viable.

There was a consensus at the meeting of the importance of the current Tir Mynydd Scheme and budget to deliver sustainable upland farming and a commitment to a positive dialogue with Welsh Assembly Government to support the continuation and enhancement of these fragile but important areas during a time of profound agricultural and social change.

A delegation from NFU Cymru will meet the Minister for the Environment, Planning and the Countryside next Monday, 13 March, to elaborate on its written response to the Welsh Assembly Government's Tir Mynydd consultation.