EID LIVELY DEBATE AT AGM

The proposals to introduce electronic tagging of sheep and goats from January 2010 was the main topic discussed at the Annual General Meeting of the Farmers' Union of Wales, Denbighshire branch this week.

The three guest speakers, Jill Evans MEP, John Draycup, St Merryn's Meats and Union President Gareth Vaughan explained their views on the regulation. It was questioned whether the consumer wanted EID and whether it would provide better traceability. Mr Vaughan stated the Union would continue to lobby for the regulation to become voluntary for member states across Europe.

Other topics discussed included CAP reform, branding Welsh produce, livestock prices as well as supporting new entrants into the industry.

At the end of the meeting County Chairman Glyn Jones, said,"We thank the speakers and those members in attendance for an interesting and informative evening. We as a Union will continue to provide the industry with a strong voice ensuring our views are clearly heard, and taken fully into consideration."