Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:25 pm on 2 November 2021.
Trefnydd, can I call for two statements from yourself, please, as rural affairs Minister? Firstly, this week marks the start of COP26, and I note the absence of a statement from yourself regarding the positive role that agriculture can play in the fight against climate change. I'm sure you'll agree with me that it is our agricultural communities that are the natural custodians of our environment, and so the long-term sustainable support and involvement of the industry is critical in tackling climate change. Therefore, and with this in mind, can I request that you make a statement on the steps you are taking to support the agricultural community in their own attempts to protect and restore the planet via sustainable food production and agri-environmental schemes?
And, secondly, given the outbreak of avian influenza H5N1 in poultry and wild birds in Wales, can you give a statement on the outbreak and what steps you are undertaking to support the poultry industry and wild birds in Wales? I note that the Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop, has announced temporary disease control zones of 3 km and 10 km around the infected poultry farm in Wrexham, but I think this Chamber, Welsh poultry farmers and wild bird enthusiasts would appreciate a statement from yourself on the outbreak and what further work is being undertaken to protect and support wild birds and poultry here in Wales. Diolch.