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It said it remained hopeful it could secure a new outcome and Mona Dairy would be able to continue its journey, even under new ownership.

Main individual shareholders David Wynne-Finch and Ronald Akkerman said there main priority was to secure a safe home for its 31 farmers and its staff. It will keep its staff on for ‘as long as we can'.

I am saddened to learn of the news from Mona Dairies.

Right now, my focus is on those affected farm businesses which  is offering support & guidance. Whilst further clarity is needed from the dairy…

1/2 

— Paul Tompkins (@Southacrefarm) 

For farmers, we have secured an established dairy processing company as an interim milk buyer who will take their milk in the short-term, should they wish.

Íæż½ã½ã will be paid for any milk supplied under this interim arrangement by that milk buyer.

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Sustainable dairy

Mr Akkerman said: "We have tried our hardest to deliver the best and most modern, environmentally sustainable cheese processing plant for our farmers and for Wales and are devastated that we could not get it over the line.

"We were so close. But close has not been enough. We thank all of the many people who came with us on our journey and are truly sorry we have come up short.

"The shareholders will be working tirelessly over the next few days to secure the best outcome for everyone involved in the Mona Dairy project."

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Íæż½ã½ã Union of Wales milk and dairy produce committee chair Brian Walters said:

"Undoubtedly, this loss will be hard hitting for both the local economy and the 31 producers that currently supply milk to Mona Dairy.

"Dairy farmers throughout Wales are facing an unprecedented period of uncertainty, having dealt with the difficulties of a long wet winter alongside the continuing turmoil of changes to future agricultural support and red tape.

"Compliance with the Control of Agricultural Pollution regulations and the ever tightening noose of bovine TB infections continue to bring great difficulties and extortionate costs to the sector.

"We hope that as a result of a weak spring flush and an improving dairy commodities market, other milk processors will be in a favourable position to support milk producers currently supplying Mona Dairy.

"However, for a more permanent resolution, it is hoped that a new buyer could be sought to take advantage of these innovative facilities at the site on Ynys Môn. Given the sustainability credentials and economic opportunity that Mona Dairy has to offer, we call on the Welsh Government for support in facilitating a positive outcome for the business.

"FUW members affected by this news are welcome to contact their county offices for guidance and support during this challenging time," Mr Walters concluded.