This morning (Friday, 19th May) Joel James MS visited Fforch Farm in Treorchy along with the Farmer’s Union of Wales (FUW) representatives to understand the plight of Welsh farmers.
The Jones family operates Fforch Farm, a 200-acre hill farm that houses 500 Welsh hill ewes and 40 beef suckler cows. In recent years, the family have diversified their income by establishing a successful microbrewery – Cwm Rhondda Ales, as well as opening Cwm Farm Shop, which has become a local favourite.
Joel was shown around the farm by FUW representatives and members of the Jones family, who explained their diversification journey and how the farming industry is currently struggling. During his visit, Libby, Sharon, Brian, and Gemma discussed with Joel some of the issues facing farmers at the moment including the lack of people, particularly young people, entering the industry and the lack of trade-specific skills such as butchery.
Joel was also informed about the impact of wind farms on the agricultural community. He learned that the increase in wind farms in the local area is causing the price of land to skyrocket, preventing farmers from expanding their capacity and discouraging people from entering the industry. Joel also learnt how issues are being compounded by local council regulations which are making diversification a lengthy and complex process.
After being shown around the farm, Joel was taken to Cwm Farm Shop where he could see the range of local products that are grown and sold. Some of the products included freshly made jam and chutneys, to prime cuts of meat.
Following the visit, Joel said:
“I am really grateful to the Jones family and the FUW for agreeing to meet me today and discuss at length the issues the farming community are currently facing.
Farmers are the backbone of society, providing food for the nation yet, they are facing a crisis. When trying to justify their schemes such as the Universal Basic Income (UBI) and the trialling of the 4-day week, health and well-being are at the heart of their arguments. Yet, the same consideration does not seem to apply to our farmers. They matter too.
Diversification within agriculture should be seen as an opportunity for our farming community, offering them an alternative income. I find it absurd that local council regulations are causing it to be a deterrent to young talent and interest.”
