Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Apr 2000

Vol. 517 No. 3

Written Answers. - Agricultural Colleges.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

26 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views on the decline in the numbers attending agricultural colleges; the plans, if any, he has to deal with the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9688/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

The number of students attending the agricultural colleges has declined in recent years. An ERSI study produced for Teagasc last year suggested reasons, including the following, for this decline: declining numbers of farms; declining school leaving population; increased availability of third level educational places; and increased off-farm job opportunities, locally and nationally, for young school leavers from a farming background.

I again emphasise the importance of agricultural education and training for any young person who intends to take up farming. Continuing technological and economic changes make such train ing essential for a successful career in the demanding world of modern farming.

I also point out that young trained farmers can avail of significant financial benefits from the State, including stamp duty relief and installation aid. Under the terms of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, the stamp duty exemption on the transfer of agricultural land and buildings to trained young farmers is being increased to 100%. Trained young farmers also qualify for the transfer of land under the early retirement scheme for farmers.

Last November, I established a task force to review the training needs of agriculture in the light of the changing social and economic circumstances. The task force will address the issue of declining student numbers and I look forward to receiving its report next month.