‘Landmark day’ for the organic farming sector

The new Organic Farming Scheme has generated an unprecedented level of interest in going organic, with 870 applications, compared to a previous annual maximum of 380 applications.

“The fact that 504 of these applicants are converting to organics for the first time highlights increased recognition of the potential opportunities that exist for organic producers, both at home and abroad,” said Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Tom Hayes.

The 870 applications account for over 46,000 hectares, and over 58% of this area is being brought into organic production for the first time. “This is a landmark day for the organic farming sector,” said Minister Hayes.