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The Rural Affairs Minister Lesley Griffiths was at the showground in Llanelwedd on Monday (November 27) and has reiterated the climate and nature emergencies are the biggest threat to the agriculture sector and has emphasised the important role farmers have to play.

Ms Griffiths said: "The Winter Fair provides an important opportunity to discuss agricultural issues, especially in how we respond to the climate and nature emergencies.

Climate change

"We have a fantastic and committed agricultural sector and for the sake of our communities, our future generations, and the sustainability of the industry, we simply cannot delay responding to these emergencies. There are already visible effects, and we must act."

Ms Griffiths added food production was at great risk if action was not taken and that farmers had an essential role in meeting the challenges ahead.

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"I have always been clear about the importance of working together and this is vital if we are to achieve our shared goals," she added.

Rural budget

The Minister acknowledged the difficult financial situation would be one of the points of discussion at this year's Winter Fair.

She said: "Leaving the European Union has removed a level of certainty and next month sees the end of EU spending as the Rural Development Programme comes to an end.

"However, we remain absolutely committed to supporting our rural communities and helping them succeed into the future."