Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 February 2007
59 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance if he will amend the Finance Bill to facilitate persons who have completed their 180 hour course for their green certificate but have not completed their apprenticeship with FÁS by 31 March 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5861/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Finance Bill 2007 proposes changes to the requirements necessary to be regarded as a young trained farmer for the purposes of relief from stamp duty on certain transfers of farm land as well as the enhanced regime of stock relief. From 31 March 2008 the basic minimum standard required will be the new FETAC Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture. Details of the new scheme, as well as a commencement date of 31 March 2008, were agreed with the farming representative bodies at the Partnership talks concluded late last year.
The extended lead in time provides an opportunity for an individual to achieve the existing standard before the new requirements take effect. However, individuals who have not achieved the necessary standard under the existing scheme of courses by that date will, in fact be given credit against the FETAC Level 6 standard for any element of existing courses completed and this includes the 180 hours of Teagasc training which is referred to in the question.
