Discussion groups for sheep farms

Up to €1,000 for participating in a discussion group will enable some hill sheep farmers to increase the aid they will receive in 2013 by almost €590, according to Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney.

Although funding for the three-year sheep grasslands scheme (financed by unspent Pillar 1 CAP funds), now in its third year, is reduced from €18m to €14m, the total 2013 spend on the sheep sector will be similar to 2012, because €3m will also be available for sheep discussion groups in the new Sheep Technology Adoption Programme.

With dairy discussion group members, on average, increasing profit margins by between 4% and 5%, it is hoped a similar model for sheep farmers will help them earn more in the market place.