Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2004
124 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans for improved investment in organic farming; if he has satisfied himself with current levels of training and start up support for organic farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4918/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraGrant aid towards investment in the organic sector is provided through the scheme of grant aid for the development of the organic sector, which was approved under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The scheme provides grant assistance for both on-farm and off-farm investment in equipment and facilities for preparation, grading, packing, storage and distribution of organic produce. Grant aid is payable at 40% of the eligible cost. The maximum grant payable over the duration of the scheme for on-farm investment is €50,790 while the maximum for off-farm investment is €508,000.
Organic farmers are also eligible for financial support through the rural environment protection scheme, REPS. REPS includes a supplementary measure for organic farming whose objective is to encourage producers to respond to the market demand for organically produced food. Currently, an organic farmer with 40 hectares in REPS can receive up to €13,280 a year, which includes payment of the basic measure, while a holding is in conversion to full organic status. When full organic status is obtained, such a farmer may receive an annual payment of up to €9,680, which also includes payment of the basic measure. Organic farmers will also benefit, subject to European Commission approval, from the higher payment rates and higher eligible areas agreed in Sustaining Progress that have been included in the proposed changes to the REP scheme. Under these proposals, the maximum payment while a holding is in conversion will rise to €18,505, and when full organic status is achieved the maximum payment will be €13,555.
In regard to training, the partnership expert working group, which advises the national organic steering group on the provision of training, education, research and advice, recommended the establishment of organic demonstration farms as a priority. I am pleased to say that as recently as last week, seven organic farms were approved on a pilot basis for this year to demonstrate a variety of organic farming methods. This initiative should provide valuable training and advice for both existing and potential organic farmers.
