Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 2:25 pm on 28 September 2021.
Diolch, First Minister. Crime in the countryside causes serious distress to our rural communities, with agricultural vehicle thefts, sheep worrying and the vandalism of wildlife nesting areas all being reported in recent months. As a member of Wales YFC, these are issues that I'm all too aware of, and, as you mention, we are fortunate that Rob Taylor, Wales's wildlife and rural crime co-ordinator, has a passion and dogged determination to cut rural crime across Wales through a cohesive and collaborative approach between Welsh police forces. And while this role is being funded by the Welsh Government, that funding is due to stop in only a few short months. Therefore, what reassurances can you give to Wales's rural communities that the wildlife and rural crime co-ordinator will receive longer term funding to ensure Rob, his expertise and enthusiasm, aren't lost in the battle against rural crime? Diolch.