Newton, 29 February, 2023: Thousands of farmers gathered at the Senedd in Cardiff to protest the Welsh government’s controversial farm subsidy plans, known as the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). The SFS proposed allocating 10% of agricultural land for trees and 10% for wildlife habitat, a move criticized by unions as “unworkable.” Approximately 3,000 people joined the demonstration, prompting opposition parties in the Senedd to vote against the plan in a non-binding vote.
Outgoing First Minister Mark Drakeford and Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths responded to concerns by announcing potential actions, including an evidence-based review of farms’ role in carbon emissions and an updated economic analysis of the post-Brexit subsidy scheme.
The proposal’s requirement for 10% tree coverage faced backlash, with an economic impact assessment suggesting potential reductions in livestock and farm labor. Farmers staged protests and tractor demonstrations across Wales, expressing discontent with perceived disconnect between their livelihoods and decisions made in Cardiff Bay.
Supporters argue the scheme’s flexibility, such as counting grazed livestock fields toward habitat targets, is crucial for addressing climate change and nature loss. However, farmers at the Senedd voiced concerns about the impact on their livelihoods.
NFU Cymru Deputy President Abi Reader described the subsidy plans as “crazy,” emphasizing unity among protestors from diverse regions. Farmers expressed frustration at the government’s perceived lack of responsiveness, emphasizing the potential seriousness for the industry’s future.
The discontent extends beyond subsidy issues, encompassing concerns about bovine TB and stricter regulations on manure spreading. NFU Cymru President Aled Jones urged the Welsh government to reset its relationship with the countryside, suggesting a possible pause in implementing the new funding scheme.
Protesters symbolically lined up wellies on the Senedd steps, representing anticipated job losses resulting from the subsidy plans. The government’s assessment predicts an 11% reduction in farm labor, potentially translating to over 5,500 job losses, but notes the need for workers in non-farm-related roles.
The Welsh government, expressing commitment to Welsh farming’s successful future, stated ongoing collaboration with farmers for the Sustainable Farming Scheme’s development. The consultation for the scheme is set to close on March 7.
