Farmers’ Union of Wales officials met up with newly elected Brecon and Radnor MP Jane Dodds to discuss the most critical #farmingmatters at the county show (Saturday, 3 August). 

Speaking at the show, FUW Vice President Brian Bowen told the MP that the consequences for Wales' economy of a no-deal Brexit are such that no responsible Government would allow the UK to leave without a deal, and nor would any responsible Parliament agree to this.

He said: “Boris Johnson believes the risks of there not being a deal are a million to one and we welcome this optimism but are extremely concerned by the 'do-or-die' rhetoric.

“If we are to leave without a deal, the emergency no-deal planning needs to be stepped up - we understand that this is to happen but this in itself highlights the extreme dangers our economy is now facing. 

“The impact of losing our EU export market in the event of a hard Brexit because of tariffs and other barriers makes even the whole promised £300m look like a drop in the ocean - and we are just one of many industries which are looking at losing billions in the event of a no-deal Brexit. Farmers here in Brecon and Radnorshire are worried about their livelihoods and this fear is becoming all-consuming.

The Farmers’ Union of Wales is urging farmers to make use of a free and confidential pesticide disposal scheme across all of Wales as part of the PestSmart project, run by Dwr Cymru Welsh Water.

The scheme will open for registration from Wednesday 14 August until 5pm on Monday 30 September, allowing professional users to safely and confidentially dispose of unwanted, out-of-date or now unlicensed pesticides and other chemicals.

FUW Policy Officer Bernard Griffiths said: “If you find that you have out of date or now unlicensed products on farm, which can be difficult or expensive to dispose of correctly, then we would urge you to register for this scheme. 

The Anglesey branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales is looking forward to a busy two-day county show (Tuesday 13 August - Wednesday 14 August), with #FarmingMatters chats, children's competitions and plenty of entertainment on the agenda. 

Those keen to raise specific farming matters are welcome to join Rhun ap Iorwerth AM at an open surgery at 11am on the Tuesday at the Union’s stand and those concerned about rural crime are invited to stop by for advice on how to keep their property and livestock safe.

Joining the stand are  ‘Quad Claw’, who will be on site for the two days, and Arfon Jones North Wales Police, Police and Crime Commissioner will be on the stand on Tuesday at 12 noon to answer any questions farmers may have. 

Speaking ahead of the event, FUW Anglesey CEO Alaw Jones said: “Farming is facing an uncertain future for so many reasons and we look forward to raising some of our concerns with Rhun ap Iorwerth at the show and hope many of you will join us.

“Rural crime, including farm machinery thefts and livestock worrying, is also still a big problem for our farmers and we look forward to discussing this with Arfon Jones at the show.”

Also joining the FUW team at the stand to highlight the importance of good mental health will be the DPJ Foundation and the Samaritans, who are there for both days of the show.

Those joining the Farmers’ Union of Wales stand (B13, by the Grand Arena) at the Pembrokeshire County Show (Tuesday 13 and Thursday 15 August) can look forward to a busy program of events, #FarmingMatters chats and plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained.

Speaking ahead of the show, FUW Pembrokeshire CEO Rebecca Voyle said: “We have a busy three days of activities planned for the show, including a new children’s area where there will be an opportunity to enter our colouring competition to win Puddle’s the Pig’s cuddly cousin, Polly. 

“And those needing advice on how to spot scams, mental health support, slurry storage and information on changes to water abstraction licensing, farm fire safety and safe burning advice or any land agent queries, are welcome to join us at the stand as well. 

“We are also looking forward to discuss many #FarmingMatters and #FairFarmFunding with our members and elected politicians and extend a warm welcome to everyone. I hope many of you can join us for what promises to be another excellent show.” 

FUW Insurance Services Ltd. will also be holding a prize draw so don’t forget to enter to be in with a chance of winning a £50 high street voucher.