Written - Financial Support for Young Farmers Clubs of Wales

The purpose of this statement is to let Members know that I have agreed to provide a one-off contribution of £50,000 to the Young Farmers Clubs Wales.

The Young Farmers Clubs Wales is a rural youth organisation with approximately 6,000 members in 180 Clubs across Wales. It provides a wealth of activities for young people in rural areas aimed at contributing to their personal development, raising awareness about sustainable rural life, raising the profile of the Welsh language, and promoting equality of opportunity.

In 2006 the Young Farmers Clubs Wales developed a business plan to help secure the organisation’s finances for the future. Unfortunately in 2007, due to circumstances beyond their control they suffered some unexpected financial losses at a key time in the implementation of this plan. This money will help them to maintain staffing levels and continue their work in securing additional sources of sponsorship and income streams. I have asked the Young Farmers Clubs Wales to let me have an update on their financial situation in six months time.