ACS

Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones told the Grand Union Council of the Farmers Union of Wales in Aberystwyth last week, that high quality local produce in Wales offered the prospect of an economic boost for rural businesses and communities as well as the farming industry.

The Welsh Assembly Government aims to boost demand for first-class Welsh produce by encouraging its purchase by the public sector, said Mr Jones, who is Minister for the Economy and Transport.

Mr Jones stated that, “One noticeable trend, which I greatly welcome, is that people want to buy more locally produced food. This trend can help place Wales at the forefront of the emerging Europe-wide food tourism market – adding greatly to income in rural areas. This is a period of opportunity for farmers and rural businesses – and it is important they grasp it.

Mr Jones continued, “We (the Welsh Assembly) are now developing a Local Sourcing Action Plan to encourage the processing, selling and buying of local produce – in line with the commitment we make as a government in the One Wales programme.

“I believe the public sector is becoming more accessible to local food and drink producers, with enhanced procurement methods making it easier for our producers to compete on a level playing field.

“We are very much aware of the economic challenges facing rural Wales – with bovine TB, bluetongue and rising fuel prices all issues affecting the prosperity of rural communities.

“The Welsh government aims at putting in place the economic and transport policies to ensure rural as well as urban areas share fully in prosperity. The new Flexible Support for Business system, improved transport links and strategic regeneration initiatives all contribute to that goal.”