Over the last six weeks FWAG Scotland has determinedly explored various options to try to secure the charity as a whole or part of the organisation in a new viable form. The support of agricultural industry stakeholders and a number of individuals in particular, alongside other partner organisations, members and funding bodies has been strongly appreciated and has energised efforts over this very difficult period.
The FWAG Scotland Board met again on Sunday 22nd Feb it was evident then that the likelihood of maintaining any or part of the Advisory Group, despite intense activity, was no longer attainable. After taking professional advice it was clear but highly regrettable that the best interests of creditors and staff would be served by early liquidation. The FWAG Scotland Board has therefore instructed Baker Tilly to initiate the process which will lead to the appointment of a provisional liquidator.
Board members wish to sincerely thank all FWAG Scotland’s supporters all advisors and staff for their continued, professional support of clients and members, plus Alison McKnight and the management team in Perth for their ceaseless effort through all the uncertainty. The closure of FWAG Scotland today ends a relationship with Scottish farming which has we believe been of true value to Scottish farming, Scotland’s landscape and the wider environment for many, many years. As that role ends, the original parent body FWAG UK and a number of key supporters across Scotland are exploring how best to continue to support farming and the environment.
A Scottish Government Spokeswoman said:
"We are sorry to hear that the Directors of the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) Scotland have decided to place the organisation into voluntary administration.
"Ministers, Scottish Government officials and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) have worked intensively with FWAG Scotland and other stakeholders to try to secure a future for the work done by this charitable organisation. Funding of £160,000 was fast-tracked via SNH to allow FWAG Scotland to keep going while it put together a sustainable business model. Further money would have been available if FWAG Scotland could show it was going to meet clear business objectives but from the outset the organisation was facing an uphill struggle.
"The organisation fulfilled a valuable role in integrating conservation practices into farm business management and the Scottish Government will work with SNH and other stakeholders to explore how to continue the work carried out by FWAG Scotland. "
