The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) recently met with Plaid Cymru Caerfyrddin Senedd Members, Cefin Campbell and Nerys Evans at Gurnos, the family farm of FUW President Ian Rickman near Llandeilo, to discuss the key challenges facing Welsh agriculture and the support being introduced by the new Welsh Government.

The meeting provided an opportunity for FUW President Ian Rickman and Deputy President Dai Miles to discuss the major issues affecting the farming sector directly with the local Members of the Senedd, including the transition to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), the impact of agricultural pollution regulations, and the ongoing burden of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) on farming families.

Since Plaid Cymru formed the Welsh Government following the Senedd election in May, several policies have been announced in response to priorities long championed by farming unions and the wider agricultural sector. Earlier in June, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llŷr Gruffydd, announced that John Davies, a Brecknock beef and sheep farmer would chair a review into the paperwork and administrative burdens faced by farmers.

More recently, the Welsh Government announced a new programme of low-interest loans of up to £1 million to help Welsh farmers invest in improvements to agricultural buildings, increase energy efficiency and productivity, and purchase new equipment.

The meeting also enabled the FUW to set out its priorities for the new Government, including the need for multiannual funding to underpin the Sustainable Farming Scheme and the development of a new approach to tackling bTB.

Speaking following the meeting, FUW President Ian Rickman said:

"Welsh farmers are facing an exceptionally challenging period, with a number of complex issues placing significant pressure on the sector - from adapting to the Sustainable Farming Scheme and the far-reaching requirements of the agricultural pollution regulations, to the continuing impact of bovine TB on the emotional and financial wellbeing of farming families.

"It was a pleasure to welcome Cefin and Nerys to Gurnos and to have the opportunity to discuss these key issues, as well as to hear more about the policies the new Welsh Government has already announced to support the sector. 

We also welcomed the opportunity to outline the FUW's priorities, including securing long-term funding for the Sustainable Farming Scheme and delivering a more effective approach to tackling bovine TB, both of which are essential to providing greater confidence and certainty for Welsh farmers."

The countdown is on to the 2026 Royal Welsh Show, taking place from Monday 20 July to Thursday 23 July at Llanelwedd, and the Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) and FUW Insurance Services Ltd are looking forward to welcoming members, customers and visitors for four fantastic days celebrating the very best of rural Wales.

The Union's Pavilion will once again host a varied programme of seminars, panel discussions and events throughout the week, alongside guest speakers, industry updates and opportunities to catch up with colleagues and friends from across Wales.

We're also delighted to welcome Bwncath back to the Pavilion on Tuesday evening, always one of the highlights of the Show.

Keep an eye on our website and social media channels in the lead-up to the Show for the latest programme details, event announcements and updates. We look forward to seeing you at Llanelwedd!

11:00- 11:30am - Monday -  FUW Pavilion
Meet the Minister: Llyr Gruffydd MS, Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability

Join Farmers’ Union of Wales President Ian Rickman for a discussion with the Welsh Government Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd MS. This meeting will provide an opportunity for the Cabinet Minister to outline his priorities for the role and share his vision for the future of Welsh agriculture.

2:15pm - Monday -  FUW Pavilion
Powering Rural Economies: Women Leading Change in Welsh Politics

Women in Public Affairs Cymru (WiPA), supported by Grasshopper Communications, is delighted to host a panel discussion at this year’s Royal Welsh Show exploring the role of women in shaping the future of rural Wales.

This timely discussion will bring together voices from politics, farming, communications and community leadership to examine how women are influencing policy and decision-making across rural Wales. The session will explore key issues including leadership pathways for women, the future of rural economies and agricultural transition, and how to strengthen the political voice and visibility of younger women.

Confirmed speakers include: Caryl Gruffydd Roberts (FUW), Clare Jones (Grasshopper Communications), Kate Miles, (DPJ Foundation).

11:00am - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
Livestock Numbers in Wales: Are we heading in the right direction? 

Are livestock numbers in Wales moving in the right direction - and what does the future hold? This panel brings together key voices from across the supply chain to explore the pressures, policies and priorities shaping Welsh livestock farming. With growing focus on climate targets and calls to reduce emissions, the discussion will examine what changing livestock numbers could mean for the economy, the environment, and the future of rural and upland communities. Grounded in the FUW’s position that policies must not negatively impact livestock numbers, the session will challenge how we strike the right balance between environmental ambition and agricultural sustainability. An open and timely conversation, this seminar will offer insight, debate and practical perspectives on one of the most important issues facing Welsh farming today.

Panel: Cllr Wyn Evans FRAgS (Vice Chair of Welsh Lamb & Beef Producers), Professor Prysor Williams, Alastair Brown (LAA), Wyn Williams (FUW Farmer Director), Leisia Tudor (Dunbia), Cath Smith (Hybu Cig Cymru Chair)

1:00pm - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
Future of rural connectivity in Wales
Ofcom session

Reliable connectivity is essential for communities, businesses and public services across Wales. The session will explore the current state of mobile and broadband connectivity in rural areas of Wales and how we can ensure that connectivity works for everyone in the future.

With a panel of senior representatives from Ofcom, VodafoneThree, Openreach and the Farmers' Union of Wales, a live question and answer session will give you the opportunity to share your experiences, ask questions and engage directly with industry experts and policy makers.

6:30pm - Tuesday - FUW Pavilion
BWNCATH Gig

Join us for a performance from the popular Welsh language group, Bwncath. Tickets available here:

https://farmersunionofwales.zohobackstage.com/Bwncath2026#/ 

10:00 - Wednesday - FUW Pavilion
BVD: Where are we?

As Phase 2 of the BVD (Wales) Order 2024 comes into force, understanding what the new rules mean for Welsh cattle farms has never been more important. At this year’s Royal Welsh Show, the Farmers’ Union of Wales will host a timely Question and Answer session exploring the practical implications of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) legislation across the diverse farming systems of Wales. With BVD continuing to impact herd health and farm profitability, this discussion offers a valuable opportunity to address concerns, clarify requirements and hear expert insight.

11:00 - Wednesday - FUW Pavilion
Cultivating content: Farming and social media

Social media has transformed how farming connects with the public, offering unprecedented opportunities to showcase life on the land and tell agriculture’s story firsthand. From creating content and growing a following to tackling misconceptions and promoting the realities of modern agriculture, our panellists will explore the power of digital platforms to reach new audiences. We’re particularly delighted to be joined by prominent online farming personality Cameron Wilson (Cammy) from The Sheep Game, Leah Meirion (Head of Agricultural Marketing Mole Valley Farmers) and Caryl Gruffydd Roberts from the FUW.

11:00am - Thursday - FUW Pavilion
Secure your Farm, Secure your Future

Join Detective Inspector Paul Hall from the Cyber Resilience Centre for Wales for an informative session on the growing cyber threats facing the farming community. Learn about the most common methods criminals use to target farmers online and discover practical steps you can take to protect your business, finances and personal information from cybercrime.

The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) has presented a cheque for £65,000 to Wales Air Ambulance Charity, marking the culmination of fundraising efforts during Ian Rickman's first term as FUW President between 2023 and 2026.

The cheque was formally handed over by FUW President Ian Rickman during a visit to the Wales Air Ambulance's Dafen base in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire.

The impressive total was raised through a wide range of fundraising initiatives organised by the Union, its members and FUW Insurance Services Ltd over the past three years. These included the FUW's annual Farmhouse Breakfast Week, an ATV raffle, collections and fundraising activities at agricultural shows across Wales, alongside numerous county and staff events.

The presentation comes at a particularly significant time for the charity, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026. Established on St David's Day in 2001, Wales Air Ambulance has grown from a single helicopter operating five days a week into one of the UK's most advanced consultant-led air ambulance services. Today, it operates four helicopters and a fleet of rapid response vehicles, delivering hospital-standard critical care across Wales 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Since its first mission, the service has responded to more than 56,000 incidents and continues to rely on public donations to raise the £13 million needed each year to keep its lifesaving service operating.

Commenting, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: "I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together in support of Wales Air Ambulance Charity over the past three years. The fantastic amount we have raised is a reflection of the generosity and community spirit of FUW members, staff and rural communities across Wales, and I would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported our fundraising efforts.

"Whether it was attending one of our January breakfast events, buying a ticket for our ATV raffle or making a donation for tea or coffee at a local agricultural show, every contribution has helped make this campaign such a success. It is the countless acts of kindness and generosity from people across Wales that have enabled us to raise these vital funds.

"Wales Air Ambulance provides an invaluable, lifesaving service for people across Wales, particularly in our rural communities, and it has been a privilege to support the charity. I am very grateful to everyone who has helped us raise these funds, and I know they will make a meaningful difference in ensuring the Wales Air Ambulance can continue delivering critical care whenever and wherever it is needed most."

Dr Sue Barnes, Chief Executive of Wales Air Ambulance Charity, said: “We have had a fantastic three years working with Ian and his brilliant team. “It has been a joyous pan-Wales partnership, involving our staff, crew and volunteers across the country.”

“Collaborations like this are key to everything we do, helping keep our helicopters in the sky and rapid response vehicles on the road.

“From Farmhouse Breakfast Week and tractor runs to county shows and the FUW at 70 celebrations, Farmers’ Union of Wales members have raised an extraordinary amount for our Charity.

“This is equivalent to the cost of eighteen missions. They truly are lifesavers.”

Ian Rickman was re-elected as FUW President at the Union's June 2026 Grand Council. His chosen charity for his new presidential term will be announced during the Royal Welsh Show later this month.

The Farmers' Union of Wales (FUW) recently welcomed Gŵyr Abertawe's newly elected Senedd Member, John Davies MS, to Cathelyd Isaf, Cwm Clydach, on the outskirts of Swansea, to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Welsh agriculture.

Hosted by farmer Ann Lewis, the visit provided an opportunity to showcase the farm's successful diversification. Having previously operated a suckler beef enterprise, Ann has since diversified into pig rearing, establishing the Mochyn Mawr business. The farm now rears several native breeds, including Large Black, Welsh, Saddleback and Pietrain pigs, with its free-range pork sold directly from the farm and at a range of local markets.

Discussions during the visit focused on the Welsh Government's Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), with Ann Lewis and FUW President Ian Rickman highlighting the importance of ensuring the scheme continues to evolve in close collaboration with the farming industry.

The Union emphasised the need to address ongoing concerns surrounding elements of the scheme, including veterinary costs and other practical issues affecting farm businesses, while ensuring the SFS remains practical, accessible and capable of supporting the long-term sustainability of Welsh agriculture.

A key focus of the discussion was the FUW's manifesto call for the new Welsh Government to establish a five-year financial framework for the Sustainable Farming Scheme budget. The Union believes a multi-year funding settlement would provide the medium-term certainty needed to support investment, resilience and confidence within Welsh farming businesses.

John Davies MS has recently been appointed to the Senedd's Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee as a Plaid Cymru representative. 

Commenting following the visit, FUW President Ian Rickman said: "We are grateful to Ann for the warm welcome to Cathelyd Isaf and for sharing her experience of farming and diversification. The visit provided an excellent opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the Sustainable Farming Scheme, and to reinforce the need for the scheme to continue evolving in genuine collaboration with the farming industry.

"We also highlighted the importance of securing a five-year funding framework for the Sustainable Farming Scheme and delivering baselined Universal payment rates over the course of this Senedd term.Providing better financial certainty is essential if Welsh farmers are to have the confidence to invest in their businesses and continue producing high-quality food while delivering for the environment."