8. Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) — Progress of the Wales Five-year Animal and Environment Plan

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:42 pm on 28 February 2023.

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Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru 5:42, 28 February 2023

(Translated)

Of course, it is a complex matter, and it is necessary to approach this from many perspectives. We must promote good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of disease, and we must promote the responsible use of antibiotics. It is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics that drives antimicrobial resistance. We must, therefore, ensure that the use of antibiotics is limited to necessary doses only, and that they are only used in accordance with veterinary advice. We must also look to promote alternative medicine, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and injections. But the responsibility does not rest solely on the shoulders of our farmers. The Government needs to show leadership. 

Therefore, the Government must provide support and resources to ensure that farmers have the ability to act in accordance with the best practices in terms of hygiene and welfare in order to make the necessary changes. I welcome the announcement of £2.5 million by the Government to continue the efforts for two further years. But I wonder whether the Minister could confirm whether this is new money, or money that's been redirected within the current envelope of the agricultural department, and whether the Minister could answer Sam's question as to whether this is from RDP funding.