James Evans has challenged Wales' First Minister to explain how the Welsh Government plans to increase livestock numbers and protect jobs in the farming sector.

The Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd MS raised concerns during questions to First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth about the long-term decline in Wales' suckler herd and the impact on food production and rural employment.

He told the Senedd that the Welsh suckler herd has fallen by more than 40 per cent over the past two decades, putting pressure on livestock numbers.

He said the decline was having a knock-on effect on abattoirs and the agricultural supply chain.

“We've seen it in our abattoirs across the country,” said Mr Evans.

“With the numbers dropping, that puts huge pressure on jobs and future security for those abattoirs.

“I want to know clearly, and I'm sure the agricultural community do as well, what is your Government going to do to make sure we increase the number of livestock units across Wales to safeguard our food security and make sure we protect jobs in our abattoirs across Wales?”

Mr Evans also said that Plaid Cymru had previously supported recommendations from the UK Climate Change Committee to reduce livestock numbers.

Responding, Mr ap Iorwerth said agriculture remained central to Wales' rural economy and communities and said his government had not not supported or called for a reduction in livestock numbers.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our rural economy and the beating heart of our rural communities,” he said.

“This Welsh Government will provide strong support for our farmers.”

The First Minister outlined several measures he said would be introduced within the government's first 100 days. These include confirming a multi-year funding cycle for the Sustainable Farming Scheme, commissioning an independent review of bureaucracy affecting family farms, and beginning work on a national food strategy.

Mr ap Iorwerth said the government's aim was to support farming while improving environmental sustainability.

“Our job is to support agriculture as a key pillar not just of the rural economy, but of rural society,” he said.

“This Government has not supported or called for a reduction in livestock numbers.

“All the actions that we want to pursue as this Government are to help agriculture be more sustainable, more profitable and more environmentally sustainable.”

Following the exchange, Mr Evans said farmers needed more than assurances from the Welsh Government.

“Livestock farming is at the heart of rural Wales, but over the past two decades the Welsh suckler herd has fallen by more than 40 per cent,” he said.

“That has real consequences for food production, family farms and the future of our abattoirs.

“If livestock numbers continue to fall, we lose critical mass in the sector. That puts jobs at risk, weakens our food security, and makes it harder for rural communities to sustain the supply chains they rely on.

“The First Minister says his government supports Welsh family farms, but warm words are not enough. We need clear action to increase livestock numbers, safeguard food security and protect abattoir jobs across Wales.”