FUW URGES FARMERS TO GET INVOLVED IN ASSEMBLY POWERS DEBATE

Welsh farmers were urged today to get involved in the debate on the future direction of the National Assembly and make their views known on whether to retain the current position or move towards full law-making powers which would require a referendum.

Farmers' Union of Wales president Gareth Vaughan said the Assembly's powers have the potential to affect everyone's lives in areas as diverse as rural affairs, the environment, health, education, the economy, culture and sport.

"Therefore, the FUW believes as many people in Wales as possible should join in the big debate about devolved government and law-making in Wales.

"The All Wales Convention is currently preparing the ground for a possible referendum on full law-making powers so whatever views individual Welsh farmers hold I would urge them to get involved in the consultation and make themselves heard," said Mr Vaughan.

In the One Wales agreement between the Labour and Plaid Cymru groups in the Assembly a joint commitment was made to use the current law-making powers to the full, and to campaign for a successful outcome of a referendum for full law-making powers for Wales.

"While some farmers may agree with this approach, others may object strongly, and it is therefore essential that the industry makes its views clear," added Mr Vaughan

The All Wales Convention has just started consulting the public across Wales, to encourage debate about the success of the powers already available to the Assembly, and about the potential case for moving towards full law-making powers.

It aims to give a wide range of people across Wales the opportunity to share their views on this subject, so that the question of full law-making powers can be explored thoroughly with a full appreciation of people's views and concerns.

These views will then be considered as part of a report to be presented to the Welsh Assembly Government in 2010 so they can make a fully informed decision on whether Wales is ready for a referendum.

You can obtain more information and details about public meetings in your area by writing to: All Wales Convention, c/o National Assembly for Wales, Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, CF99 1NA; telephoning 029 2089 8187; or by e-mailing: