How is the Welsh Government assisting the agricultural sector in Wales to reduce the use and need for antimicrobials for treating livestock?
In 2019, I established the Wales Animal and Environment Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Delivery Group; made up of representatives from the farming industry, the veterinary profession, Public Health Wales, and Welsh Government Officials. Subsequently, I published a five-year Animal and Environment AMR Implementation Plan for Wales, which was recommended by the newly established Delivery Group.
In 2020, I made £4 million Rural Development Plan funding available, to support the control of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animals and the environment.
Arwain DGC launched in October 2021, delivering a range of exciting projects to control AMR and promote animal health, many of which, are being piloted for the first time here in Wales. To ensure delivery continues uninterrupted an additional £2.5 million of Rural Investment Schem funding has been allocated to support the Arwain project, ensuring Wales continues to lead the way on AMR controls.
It is imperative we continue making every effort to ensure antibiotics remain effective for future generations. The Arwain project has been hugely successful, receiving recognition across the UK and Internationally.