Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
371. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a farm (details supplied) will be considered as eligible for social farming funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8728/24]
View answerA procurement process took place in 2021 for the provision of new or existing social farming model projects. Four projects were successful following the tendering process and were awarded contracts with possible extensions.
• Leitrim Integrated Development Company CLG – to model and progress full commissioning and mainstreaming of Social Farming supports across a range of sectors and services in Ireland.
• Down Syndrome Irl (Cork Branch) – to provide opportunities for participation in a purpose built farm, the Field of Dreams with horticulture and animal care elements which will bring long lasting wellness benefits to participants.
• South Kerry Development Partnership – to increase participant and host farmers engagement so that the social farming opportunity is available to more people in Kerry and to offer choice to people with disabilities to engage with farm families.
• IRD Duhallow – to promote rehabilitation, social inclusion, training and improved quality of life in a non-clinical setting using agriculture including plants and animals. To include people with mental health conditions, people with intellectual, physical or sensory disabilities, people with autism and those with hidden disabilities'
My Department has the right to extend the term of the contracts for a period or periods up to 12 months with a maximum of four such extensions. It is envisaged a new procurement process will be rolled out in early 2026. The Social Farm referred to by the Deputy may submit a tender application at that time.
