Welsh farmers urge government to introduce small grants scheme

Small grants scheme needed for Welsh farmers, NFU Cymru says
Small grants scheme needed for Welsh farmers, NFU Cymru says

Farmers have expressed their frustration that a small grants scheme is not currently available under the Wales Rural Development Programme (RDP).

Speaking at the meeting held in Monmouthshire, Perkin Evans, Chairman of NFU Cymru’s Combinable Crops and Horticulture Working Group said progress with rolling out the Wales RDP has been 'slow' and 'against the clock', with Brexit making matters even worse.

He said: “We really need to see new impetus from the Welsh Government when it comes to rolling out the RDP in Wales and we must make the best possible use of the time we have left to participate in European programmes, to prepare the industry for the challenges that lie ahead.

“The RDP must deliver for as many farmers as possible and needs to have a broad reach, with simple and straightforward processes for accessing funds. We believe that the introduction of a small grants scheme, to help farmers invest in the latest equipment and new technology, could help farmers across all sectors in Wales.

“A small grants scheme would be of significant interest and benefit to Welsh arable producers in supporting our sector to invest in things such as precision farming technology, minimum tillage and soil aeration equipment; investments that improve productivity on farm and also help the industry meet our environmental and climate change obligations.”

Mr Evans concluded: “RDP funds have the potential to make a significant contribution to farm businesses across Wales; these are the businesses that underpin the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of Wales.”