The next round of a three-year national programme for beekeeping has been launched

The next round of a three- year national programme for apiculture, the technical term for beekeeping, has been launched.

Minister of State Andrew Doyle said it will support research into production standards.

Mr Doyle said EU support for beekeeping is provided through the national apiculture programmes.

These aim to improve general conditions for the production of honey and other products.

Ireland’s National Apiculture Programme, which received funding of €217,985 over the last three years, will expire at the end of this month.

Researchers can now submit proposals for the new programme which will run from August 1, 2019 until July 31 2022.

The aim is to provide technical assistance to beekeepers, combat beehive invaders and diseases and co-operate with specialist bodies for the implementation of applied research programmes.

All suitable bodies that can demonstrate the necessary research capabilities are eligible to submit proposals.

Projects that involve collaboration between institutions and/or involve the development of critical mass are encouraged.