NFU Cymru has today welcomed the fact that the European Commission withdrew proposals for a ban on Asulox from last weeks’ vote by the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH).
The move follows opposition by a blocking minority of six member states, including the UK. NFU Cymru has recently been corresponding with Wales’ MEPs and the Union’s office in Brussels on the desperate need for Asulox to be kept on the market for the purposes of bracken control in Wales’ uplands.
Commenting on the news, NFU Cymru’s President, Mr Ed Bailey said, “I am encouraged by this development, however the European Commission have made it clear that this does not necessarily mean that they will change their mind on this matter and it might only amount to a temporary reprieve.
“What it does give us is a window in which to convince our European partners of the real need to retain Asulox, which is the only selective herbicide effective for bracken control and approved for aerial spraying. Without effective means of control, bracken encroachment once again becomes a real issue. Unchecked bracken growth gives rise to a whole host of difficulties including negative impacts on biodiversity as well as public and animal health issues arising from the toxicity and carcinogenic nature of the plant and the fact that it can act as a habitat for disease carrying ticks.
“Farmers and aerial operators take the responsible use of this herbicide, which is also effective against docks, very seriously. Normally an Environmental Impact Assessment is required for bracken control and the public can be assured not only about its safe use but sound mitigation measures are in place to protect the environment as well.”
No comments have been made.