The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy - Janet Finch-Saunders MS - has today (22 May) called on the Welsh Government to investigate how best to educate the public on their responsibilities under the Countryside Code.
Her calls come as local farmers report a growing number of instances where members of the public are found walking across working agricultural land, leaving farmyard gates open and letting their dogs run free.
In her statement, Janet says:
“By following the Countryside Code, we ensure the health and well-being of our farmers who continue to work tirelessly to feed the nation throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve had an enshrined set of rules for visitors to rural regions for almost a hundred years. Whilst these rules have evolved throughout that period, its abundantly clear that public knowledge of these responsibilities has not kept pace.
“I urge the Welsh Government to investigate how we can better educate the public on the Countryside Code. Whether through short videos or immersive digital content, there are many different channels Ministers can use to empower us all to learn how to safely and responsibly behave in Wales’ rural regions.
“At this time of great challenge, we must stand ready to offer our support to our agricultural heroes. This begins by simply respecting the land which is both their home and workplace."
ENDS
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