'Farmers need reassurance'

2.17.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 8th Mar 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, has expressed her concern for the future of the Tir Mynydd agri-environmental scheme.

It is feared that the Labour Assembly Government intends to make substantial cuts to the Tir Mynydd budget, resulting in much confusion among farmers over future payments. The situation has been compounded in recent days by the letters that have been received by many farmers, informing them that their SFP payments have been overpaid.

Kirsty discussing concerns with NFU Members

Ms Williams said: "Many farmers rely on Tir Mynydd payments to stay in business - it is unacceptable that there is this uncertainty over their future. The additional stress and worry caused by the latest SFP debacle leaves many, including myself, with no confidence in the Labour Government.

"I hope that the Environment Minister will allay their fears and fight hard on their behalf to ensure schemes such as Tir Mynydd, which play such a vital role in preserving the identity and culture of rural Wales, does have adequate and long term funding."