New appointments to key group promoting high standard of animal health & welfare in Wales

Sara Pedersen, Phillip Jones, Iestyn Tudur-Jones, Catherine Nakielny and Gary Yeomans will all join the Wales Animal Health & Welfare Framework (AHWF) Group on 1 June for a three-year period, having been selected through a public appointment process.

These new members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework, supporting delivery of five strategic objectives:

• Wales has healthy productive animals
• Animals in Wales have a good quality of life
• People trust and have confidence in the way food is produced and the way public health is protected
• Wales has a thriving rural economy
• Wales has a high quality environment

Members of the group also play a key role in strengthening the link between the Welsh Government, livestock keepers, other animal owners, the veterinary profession and industry representatives, covering the whole spectrum of animal health and welfare challenges.

Rural Affairs Minister, Lesley Griffiths said: “I am pleased to appoint five new members to the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group and I am certain they will make a major contribution in this important area.

“We are extremely proud of the excellent animal health and welfare standards in Wales and this group of people possess the experience and skills needed to increase awareness and contribute to raising standards even further.

“I would also like to thank the departing members Ifan Lloyd, Dai Davies, Paula Boyden, Abi Reader and Moss Jones for their vital work and the significant impact to the development of animal health and welfare policy in Wales.”

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop added: “The Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group plays a vital role in identifying priorities and encouraging collaborative working between all interested parties.

“The new members have been chosen for their breadth and depth of experience, and understanding of what’s most important to the livestock and wider animal sector in Wales. I look forward to working closely with them over the next three years.”