Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:157 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the proposals he has to facilitate long-term land leasing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25478/03]
Written Answers. - Leasing of Land.
The current low level of land sales and its high cost for many farmers means that land leasing is the main option available for most farmers wishing to improve the scale and efficiencies of their enterprises. Currently, almost one fifth of agricultural land is leased mainly on a conacre or short-term basis. There is a number of incentives in place to encourage land mobility and long-term leasing. For instance, participants in the early retirement scheme who do not wish to permanently transfer their land by deed of transfer have the option of availing of long-term leases. The taxation system allows for a rental income tax exemption for farmers over 55 years who lease their land on a long-term basis to an unconnected person.