Welcome for rural development plans

THERE was relief for Irish farmers in the copper-fastening of disadvantaged areas eligible for compensatory allowances.

The agreement confirms earlier indications that possible changes will not be introduced before 2010, said Ireland’s Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan.

Minister Eamon Ó Cuív welcomed the stipulation that at least 10% of the money Ireland receives under the Rural Development Fund will be spent outside the farm gate, and said 5% is stipulated as the minimum funding for LEADER-type projects, which is almost double the present level of funding.