The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has said it welcomes the “long awaited” support from the Welsh government for on-farm investment.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies today (Monday, April 29) announced a budget of £20 million for two funding schemes to support investment into farm infrastructure.
The Nutrient Management Investment Scheme and the Small Grants – Yard Coverings scheme will open shortly and by the summer, the Welsh government said.
FUW President Ian Rickman said: “Despite concerns we’ve raised previously in terms of this promised funding as a proportion of the estimated overall costs to the industry of over £360 million, this long awaited support will be welcomed by many in light of the recent wet weather.”
Both schemes are designed to enable farmers to address nutrient management and storage by providing support for additional slurry storage capacity and/or prevent rainwater entering slurry stores to reduce storage capacity requirement.
The support has been increased to provide a maximum 50% contribution towards certain project costs.
“We also called for derogations and flexibility around certain scheme requirements,” Rickman said.
“It is therefore encouraging that Rural Payments Wales will consider potential derogations on a case by case basis for those who are finding difficulties in meeting certain contract requirements as a result of the prolonged wet weather.
“This statement shows an example of co-working where our concerns result in prompt action from the Welsh government.
“We sincerely hope that this positive engagement continues in the context of other fundamental policy developments.”
