Highlands and Islands Regional MSP Tim Eagle has called for more clarity for farmers, crofters, and land managers following a debate in the Scottish Parliament.
MSPs were debating Stage 1 of the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill, which lays out the framework for future support for the agriculture sector.
Speaking from his lambing shed near Buckie, Tim Eagle MSP also called on the Scottish Government to include succession planning as part of any future legislation and to find more ways to support young and new entrant farmers and crofters, as well as making better use of the experience of current farmers and crofters.
Tim Eagle MSP said:
“Although my background is not in farming, it is now a huge part of my life and I’ve seen many changes in the way we farm over the last fifteen years.
“Becoming an MSP at the start of the lambing season has not been without its challenges, but it has coincided with a swathe of legislation in Parliament that will have a major impact on our rural communities.
“Despite having to juggle my farming commitments, I was pleased I could still bring my first-hand knowledge to this debate.
“It is vital that we get this Bill right for our farmers, crofters and land managers. I am particularly concerned about the lack of clarity over long-term funding and how the government will encourage new entrants into the industry.
“Scotland’s farmers and crofters are watching closely, and greater clarity is needed as the Bill progresses through Parliament.”
