Vol. 511 No. 3
157 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the plans, if any, he has to ensure the future of the family farm is protected in view of the reluctance of young people to enter farming as a full-time career. [24354/99]
A number of measures are in place to encourage young people to enter farming as a full-time career. 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 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. Priority is given to young farmers in allocating ewe and suckler cow quota rights from the national reserve.
The National Development Plan 2000-2006 launched last week has a range of measures which will benefit farmers generally including young people seeking a full time career in farming. My Department's agri-food strategy committee 2010 has been established to critically plan for the development of the agricultural industry. It is envisaged that all aspects will be examined, including the issue of land mobility. Also, a departmental task force is currently commencing a review of agricultural education and training having regard to the changing economic and social farming environment.
