New Rural Development Plan- advisory group appointed

Alun Davies, Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and European Programmes, has established the Rural Development Plan Task and Finish Group to look at the new programme for 2014-20.

The purpose of the group is to provide support as the new structure emerges and is developed.

Group members will look at the most effective way the Welsh Government can use the RDP to protect the environment, promote and support rural communities and strengthen rural businesses and Welsh farming.

All this with a view to generating rural sustainability and prosperity, by creating and preserving jobs and opportunities for the people of rural Wales.

Peter Davies, Wales’ Commissioner for Sustainable Futures, will chair the group and membership has been drawn widely from stakeholders across rural Wales.

The Deputy Minister said:

"These are exciting, changing times in rural Wales and I am determined to provide the best possible outcomes from the opportunities that come with forming the new RDP.

"I am keen to focus on thinking more creatively and innovatively to ensure we deliver a plan that meets the needs of businesses and communities across rural Wales.

"I am keen to explore all possibilities and options, and to build on the valuable work that is being delivered under the current plan."

Group members are as follows:

• Peter Davies- Wales Commissioner for Sustainable Futures
• Haydyn Edwards- Chair of the Food and Farming Sector Panel
• Sue Evans- Director of Policy Wales, Country Land and Business Association
• Sion Aron Jones- Industry Development Manager, Hybu Cig Cymru
• Kay Lewis- Rural Development Officer, YFC
• Kevin Thomas- National Director for Wales, Lantra
• Tom Jones OBE- Farmer/Vice President of WCVA
• Neville Davies- Head of European Policy and External Funding at Carmarthenshire County Council
• Carolyn Lancaster- APL Services