Rural schemes get fund boost

Two pilot initiatives announced late last week aim to advance existing social farming operations and local markets for food and artisan produce in rural areas.

Social farming is the practice of offering, on a voluntary basis, farming, horticultural and animal related work experience to people who avail of a range of day support services.

One of the aims of the other funding project, targeted at existing or start-up local food and artisan markets, is to boost rural commercial and retail activity.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney and Minister of State Ann Phelan said their department is providing part-funding for the initiatives in locations outside of Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford.

These two pilot initiatives, which are independent of each other, operate under the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Area (Cedra) Rural Innovation and Development Fund and attract a combined dedicated fund of up to €330,000 – which is available for 2015 only.

This CEDRA fund will provide up to 75% grant aid for initiatives that support social farming operations on family farms or in institutional settings. A funding range of €10,000-€20,000 is expected for approved projects.

Mr Coveney said this social enterprise has his whole- hearted support as he has seen how these services can enhance and transform clients’ and providers’ lives.

The closing date for applications under both schemes is August 14.