NFU Cymru has expressed deep concern at EU proposals for a new Regulation governing organic food production in Wales.
Presenting evidence to Assembly Members, at the National Assembly for Wales Environment and Sustainability Committee Inquiry on the issue, NFU Cymru Organic Sector representative, Haydn Evans, highlighted the European Commission’s proposals will have significant consequences for organic producers here in Wales.
Mr Evans said, “Proposals, introduced from 2017, would see an end to mixed farming (part organic and part conventional) and also a ban on the use of conventional seeds so that organic farmers will have to use 100 per cent organic seed. Supply of organic seed is extremely limited as few seed producers risk producing them as they are more susceptible to disease. Availability of the seed in the best or latest varieties is also likely to be constrained.”
In his evidence Mr Evans also explained that proposed changes to the origins of animal feeds also represent a significant threat to organic production in Wales, where livestock production systems predominate. He said, “Farmers will be expected to source 90 per cent of animal feed for herbivores, 60 per cent for pigs and poultry from the holding itself or the region. This is very concerning given that not all areas of Wales are in a situation to grow protein crops and we must remember that as a result of adverse weather conditions crops can also fail.”
In his conclusion, Mr Evans told the Inquiry the legislative proposals will inevitably lead to increases in cost of production and challenge the ability of organic farmers in Wales to continue to farm organically. He ended, “Despite good future prospects for organic markets, the new regulations mean that organic producers may be forced out and conventional producers are likely to be discouraged from joining the sector.”
