EU proposals to up grants welcomed

TALK in Brussels of increased EU support in many farm schemes, including the Farm Waste Management Scheme, Dairy Hygiene Scheme and farm diversification schemes, has been welcomed by IFA.

The proposal from the Luxembourg Presidency of the EU to increase from 50% to 60% the farm investment aid that qualifies for EU aid in Disadvantaged Areas, and from 40% to 50% in non-Disadvantaged Areas is a step in the right direction, said IFA Rural Development Chairman Padraic Divilly.

The proposals will be discussed later this week in Brussels as part of the review of the EU Rural Development regulations.