Two new schemes for farmers

A NEW installation scheme for young farmers and a new scheme of early retirement from farming, were announced yesterday by Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan.

The new Early Retirement Scheme under which a maximum pension of €15,000 a year for up to 10 years would be paid will be open to retiring farmers aged between 55 and 66.

Ms Coughlan said pension payments will be based on land area and will be more beneficial to smaller farmers than previous schemes. Farmers involved in intensive enterprises will be eligible for the scheme for the first time.