Flexible training needed, says Browne
He said he was pleased to see that Teagasc is delivering the Vocational Certificate in Agriculture at 11 locations around the country at evening time and at weekends so as to facilitate this category of farmers.
“Part-time farmers require the same high standard of training as full-time farmers but need this training to be delivered in a flexible manner because of their other commitments,” he said.
Mr Browne, who was presenting certificates to graduates of Teagasc training programmes at Kildalton Agricultural College, Piltown, Co Kilkenny, said it was also good to see that the growing demand for part-time training courses for those involved in the horticultural training sector is being met by Teagasc.
He presented certificates to 114 participants who have completed a range of courses at Kildalton College including the vocational certificates in agriculture, horticulture, horse breeding and training.
Mr Browne said with the introduction of the single payment in 2005, Irish agriculture is at a very important stage in its development. He said the full decoupling of direct payments from production will pose both challenges and opportunities for farmers.
Mr Browne said the requirement to produce what the market requires will put the market centre stage and will place even greater emphasis on technical efficiency along with business and marketing skills.
