Anticipated protests at the Welsh parliament are set to highlight opposition to proposed changes in farming subsidies, specifically targeting the Welsh Labour government's Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). This scheme, still under consultation, mandates dedicating 10% of farmland to forestry as a condition for future financial support, a move critics argue could jeopardize 5,500 jobs within the sector. The forthcoming demonstration in Cardiff Bay, expected to draw significant crowds, follows a series of country-wide protests against these proposals.
South Wales Police, cognizant of the planned protest, has issued an advisory against bringing tractors to the event, citing safety and accessibility concerns. The Welsh government, meanwhile, emphasizes its ongoing dialogue with the farming community, asserting that the consultation could lead to modifications in the SFS. High-profile figures, including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and leaders from the Welsh Conservatives and Plaid Cymru, have voiced support for the demonstrators, stressing the importance of reconsidering the scheme's impact on Welsh agriculture.
Officials underscore the importance of farming to the Welsh economy, pledging continued collaboration with farmers to refine the scheme. The police reaffirm their commitment to facilitating a peaceful and safe protest, urging cooperation from participants.
Source: irishnews.com
