Bates pushes for option 2 as Welsh Government stands on axis of historic decision over future of agri-environment schemes (Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats)

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Montgomeryshire Liberal Democrats <montlibdems@gmail.com>

Bates pushes for option 2 as Welsh Government stands on axis of historic decision over future of agri-environment schemes

March 31, 2009 12:00 AM

With the Minister for Rural Affairs on the brink of decision over the future of Welsh agri-environment schemes, Welsh Liberal Democrat Shadow Spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Mick Bates AM, is urging the Welsh Government to move towards option 2 of the review of land management actions under Axis 2 of the RDP, which offers the best practical solution to the double challenge of halting biodiversity loss and tackling climate change.

Commenting, Montgomeryshire AM Mick stated:

"The current suite of schemes has been in place for over ten years and is failing to deliver on the key environmental priorities of biodiversity, climate change and water. Biodiversity losses are continuing with lapwings and curlews predicted to be lost from Welsh farmed land within a decade if nothing is done. As the environmental impacts of climate change become more and more apparent it is crucial that we take urgent action.

"The Welsh Liberal Democrats urge the Government to move towards option 2 of their review, as this is the best practical option. It provides for agri-environment schemes in the wider countryside where the great declines in widespread farmland birds are happening and helps to stabilise carbon emissions and avoid run away climate change. It would make use of the wealth of good practice already on Welsh farmland on which to base new approaches and build on successful elements of existing schemes to meet these environmental challenges.

"Given the scale and complexity of meeting the double environmental challenge of halting biodiversity loss and achieving the One Wales Government 3 per cent carbon reduction target, an integrated approach by the Welsh Government is key and it is vital that the whole Axis 2 budget is clearly aligned to deliver these outcomes.

"The integration of action for biodiversity, carbon and water will make it possible to meet multiple objectives and make best use of limited funds. Protection and restoration of organic soils, including blanket bog, will be of benefit for biodiversity, carbon protection and water management. More collaboration between land owners on a catchment area basis is essential, instead of a scattered approach where individual farmers may enhance their own environmental credentials while the farms in surrounding areas do not work to the same environmental standards.

"In the meantime strong transitional measures will be needed to assist farmers in adapting to the changing support structures, particularly for those farmers who are currently in both Tir Gofal and Tir Mynydd. This is essential to allow the industry time to adapt to the changes that will result from the review so that farmers are not left in confusion while the agri-environment schemes are reformed."

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