Paul Bradford
Question:99 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the proposals and policies he has to encourage more young people to consider a full-time career in farming. [23861/99]
Written Answers. - Farming Incentives.
The national scheme of installation aid, re-introduced in December 1998, provides a grant of £5,600 to young farmers under 35 years of age who meet certain conditions.
In addition, a comprehensive range of tax incentives are in place, aimed at reducing the cost of ownership transfer between relatives. The incentives include stock relief, stamp duty, capital acquisitions tax and probate tax.
Special provision has been made for young farmers in the recent announcement on the distribution of the additional milk quota secured under Agenda 2000.
The National Development Plan 2000-2006 launched earlier this week has a range of measures which will benefit farmers generally including young people seeking a full-time career in farming.
My Department has recently established a task force to review agricultural education and training having regard to the changing economic and social farming environment.