€9m in 2013 funding for three discussion group programmes

The Sheep Technology Adoption Programme (STAP) of discussion groups has been put in place for the next three years, with €3 million of funding in 2013.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has announced €5m of funding in 2013 for the second year of the Beef Technology Adoption Programme, which will encompass a broader range of beef producers, including new entrants of funding in 2013. He intends to run the BTAP for a third year in 2014. Funding of €1m for the Development Programme for Dairying (DPD) is targeted both at milk suppliers who did not take part in the earlier Dairy Efficiency Programme discussion groups and other qualified farmers involved in dairying, including new entrants.

Mr Coveney said, “The programmes are intended to provide participants with the knowledge and the skills necessary to reduce costs and increase profit margins on their farms. Participants in all programmes in 2013 will be required to attend a number of discussion groups facilitated by a qualified adviser and to undertake practical tasks to assist them in improving performance in a number of areas at farm level.”

nThe DPD will focus on developing farmers who, as yet, do not have their own milking facilities but are committed to a career in dairying.

Minimum educational requirements are needed for participation. Farm managers must have the First Farm Managers Certificate (awarded by the Farm Apprenticeship Board); or an Advanced Certificate in Farm Management; or a FETAC level 6 Advance Certificate in Agriculture (with priority being given to holders of FETAC level 6 Advance Certificate in Dairy Herd Management).

Sons or daughters must have the FETAC level 6 Advance Certificate in Agriculture (with priority being given to holders of FETAC level 6 Advance Certificate in Dairy Herd Management).

*IFA National Sheep Committee Chairman James Murphy said that sheep farmers should immediately apply for the new STAP.

“IFA has made it clear to the department that individual producers who participate in the programme must be eligible to receive a payment of up to €1,000 per annum for a three-year period.”

Mr Murphy said farmers already in the beef discussion group programme may also participate in the new sheep group programme, and receive full separate payment. He said with the exception of a small number of options, the programmes are separate.

The IFA sheep farmers’ leader said it is very important that the STAP programme accommodate all types of sheep farmers.

*More information: www.agriculture.gov.ie