New panel to advise on animal health and welfare in Wales

3 Jun 2014 01:50 PM

Natural Resources Minister, Alun Davies, has appointed a group of specialists to support the development and introduction of a new Animal Health and Welfare Framework for Wales.

The team of six experts will advise the Welsh Government on the prevention, management and eradication of animal disease in an effort to improve the health and welfare of both livestock and companion animals in Wales.

The appointed panel members are from a range of backgrounds. They have been appointed to ensure that the views of livestock keepers, animal owners and the veterinary profession are reflected in the ten-year framework that seeks to improve animal health and welfare standards across Wales and increase partnership working with animal keepers.

Anglesey Farmer, Peredur Hughes has been appointed chair of the group. As former chair of the Animal Health and Welfare Strategy Steering Group, chairman of the North Wales Regional TB Eradication Board and former president of NFU Cymru, Mr Hughes has extensive knowledge of Welsh farming.

The other group members are:

Speaking about the appointments, Alun Davies said:

“I am delighted to announce the members of the new Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group.

“Collectively, the group offers vast knowledge and experience of animal health and welfare issues. I am confident that they will provide the very best guidance, advice and expertise and help us to develop our vision for the future of animal health and welfare in Wales.”

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Professor Christianne Glossop said:

“Disease outbreaks and the measures to deal with them can carry wide and costly consequences for public health, the economy and the environment. Achieving high standards of animal health and welfare is important to all of us.

“That is why we have established this group of specialists. I look forward to working with them and to benefitting from to their valuable advice on disease prevention and eradication in Wales."

Related Links

Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework