Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
1190. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the proposal for funds generated from redefining genuine farmers to be earmarked for young farmers to encourage generational renewal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30899/21]
View answerThe challenge of generational renewal is widely recognised both at national and EU level. We all agree that supporting young farmers and facilitating generational renewal is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector. The new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has cited generational renewal as one of the nine key objectives, which reflects the need to ensure a vibrant agricultural sector equipped with skilled and innovative young farmers to respond to societal demands for quality food and environmental public goods.
Under the current CAP, the National Reserve and the Young Farmers Scheme provide financial support to young farmers during the crucial early years when setting up a farm enterprise. Additionally, under the TAMS II Young Farmer Capital Investment Scheme, young farmers can avail of a 60% grant rate as compared to the standard rate of 40%.
While the CAP negotiations are still ongoing and the Department is actively engaging on these issues, there is no facility in the regulations to earmark funds generated from a definition of a genuine farmer for young farmers. As negotiations are at an advanced stage, the introduction of a new facility such as this is extremely unlikely. However, the Department would be happy to explore all options that arise.
It should be noted that there are additional supports at national level, with strong taxation measures assisting land mobility and facilitating succession, access to finance measures and a range of educational, training and advisory services. Supporting young farmers and generational renewal continues to be a priority and I will continue to actively engage on this issue.
