The Farmers' Union of Wales today expressed it disappointment that the ten non-executive directors appointed to the new body replacing Environment Agency Wales, Countryside Council for Wales and Forestry Commission Wales lacks representation from the farming industry.
FUW land use and parliamentary committee chairman, Anglesey farmer Gavin Williams, said: "In principle we supported the need for a more streamlined approach to regulating the environment in Wales but we remain concerned that delivery on the ground is properly maintained.
"We had hoped the ethos of the new body would be to work constructively with farmers to deliver environmental benefits for all but, unfortunately, it appears it will be top heavy with academics and public sector appointees and far too little representation from the agricultural industry.
"Given the important contribution made by all private sector businesses to the rural economy, we are also disappointed that there is a complete lack of representation from the private sector as well as the forestry sector”.
Environment minister John Griffiths revealed the new body will be known as Natural Resources Wales or Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru and it will be crucial to a sustainable future for the people, environment and economy of Wales.
“Not only will the new body result in a more streamlined way of working for the benefit of its customers, it will also ensure more effective delivery, improved value for money and better outcomes for the people of Wales,” he added.
Mr Williams added: "Based on the aspirations set out by the ministers in his announcement earlier today and the lack of farmer, private sector and forestry representation on the Board of Natural Resources Wales, there will have to be a significant amount of bridge building between the Body and the rural industries".