MP Livsey backs Farmers Ferry

20 July 1998

MP Livsey backs Farmers Ferry

By FWi staff

LIBERAL-Democrat MP Richard Livsey has thrown his backing behind the efforts of the Farmers Ferry project.

Farmers Ferry intends to restart the export of live sheep to the Continent. The trade has reduced dramatically in recent years due to the reluctance of car ferry companies to carry livestock – over fears that they might be on the receiving end of unwanted attention from animal welfare groups.

Mr Livsey (Brecon and Radnor) – the first MP to publicly back the initiative – described the project as a “brave” attempt to save the industry. “Nobody can claim that farmers are not trying to help themselves,” he said.

Farmers Ferry directors claim funds are pouring in with 35% of the £1.3 million target needed to launch the cross-channel vessel already in hand.

Those behind the project, predominantly Mid-Wales farmers, are staging a large presence at this years Royal Welsh Show in a bid to secure more donations. They hope to start live sheep exports by the end of August.