NFU outraged by electric fencing output restriction proposals

NFU has reacted angrily to the EU proposal to restrict electric fencing energiser output to five joules as it could have a serious impact on animal health and safety as well as the viability of many agricultural businesses in Wales. The Union has described the proposals as just another symptom of over regulation in the industry.

Dai Davies, NFU Cymru President, speaking at Monmouthshire Show, says this is a classic example of our regulations having to be proportionate. In a letter to the EU objecting to the proposals he said, "There does not seem to be a sound basis or reason for the proposed changes and there is insufficient evidence that the safety record of electric fences in Wales – which is already very good – would be improved by this proposal. The agricultural industry has not been consulted at all on this matter and NFU Cymru members are outraged by these proposals, which, it would seem, have also been strongly opposed by a number of other Member States."

Mains powered electric fencing units are currently used by all livestock sectors in Wales to keep animals in and to keep predators and other animals out. Limiting the use of such fencing could mean animals escaping and potentially causing road traffic accidents.

Such a move would also be uncompetitive and result in increased costs and difficulties for Welsh farmers who have to compete in world markets where competitors would be unlikely to be bound by, or affected by, such constraints.

One of the advantages of high-powered electric fencing is its ability to 'burn off' interfering vegetation and thus keep itself clear and working properly. Lower-powered units lack this ability.

Dai Davies said, "I very much hope that the concerns of NFU Cymru members will be given serious consideration in the forthcoming deliberations on this issue."