30 million to save Welsh farming

A plan has been announced today to encourage farm and forestry businesses to develop and safeguard the future of the Welsh agricultural industry.

Minister for Rural Affairs Elin Jones unveiled a new range of services available through Farming Connect, the Welsh Assembly Government flagship support service for farming families in Wales.

Farming Connect, funded by 30m Assembly Government and European Commission funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-13, is a high-profile integrated service which will work closely with a range of partner organisations across Wales to provide one to one support, knowledge, expertise and training and advisory services tailored to farmers' needs.

Its aim is to encourage farm and forestry businesses to develop, to remain viable and to meet future challenges in a sustainable and innovative way which safeguards the future of the Welsh agricultural industry.

It will give guidance on issues relevant to farmers including profitability, addressing climate change, safeguarding the environment and improving animal health and welfare. Farmers can register now for the new service.