Launch of grant scheme to develop next generation of farmers

A £6M scheme agreed as part of the Welsh Government’s budget settlement with Plaid Cymru to develop the next generation of farmers has opened for applications today.

Responding to the launch of the scheme that will see support for 150 farmers and develop the participants’ leadership skills, Simon Thomas Plaid Cymru AM and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, said: “I am delighted to see the launch of the Young People into Agriculture scheme today.

“Thanks to Plaid Cymru’s budget agreement with the Welsh Government in October last year, we are now seeing £6m allocated to a young farmers’ grant scheme that will ensure we have new entrants into the industry to support the longterm future of the sector.

“The future of farming is dependent on the influx of new, highlytrained individuals into the industry. New blood brings new ideas and innovation into the sector and promotes the foundation of sustainable, profitable and resilient farm businesses in Wales.

“If we are to have any chance of adapting and bending to the winds of a post-Brexit future, we will need the enthusiasm and commitment of young people in droves.

“Plaid Cymru strongly encourages our young farmers to put themselves forward and get involved in this exciting new scheme that will provide them with the support they need to enter the agriculture industry, develop their skills in sustainable business and leadership and to drive change in the wider industry.”