Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 July 2023
159. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine with regard to the recently announced TAMS woman farmer capital investment scheme, if he is aware of the concerns outlined by a group (details supplied) regarding criteria set out in the scheme; if he will outline how his Department intends to engage to address issues around access to the scheme for women farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32946/23]
View answerThe Women Farmer's Capital Investment Scheme in TAMS 3 opened to applicants on 21 June 2023, with some 260 applications submitted to date.
The new CAP places a particular focus on generational renewal and on promoting the participation of women in the social and economic development of rural areas, with special attention to farming. Gender equality is also a key objective of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and a priority for me as Minister.
TAMS 3 provides for a general grant rate of 40% for eligible investments. It is also offering an enhanced grant rate of 60% to eligible women farmers, who meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligible women farmers are those:
• Aged between 18 years of age and 66 when she applies for support.
• Meet the conditions for being head and having control of the holding.
• Meets the requirements for the appropriate training and/or skills required at the time of applications.
The women farming measure under TAMS 3 aims to balance the need to address the issues of both generational renewal and gender balance in farming, following consultation with all interested parties.
Webinars relating to TAMS 3 have taken place, including a one specifically for the Women Farmer's Capital Investment Scheme on 19th June 2023. All webinars are recorded and are available for viewing on my Department's website channel.
