FMP applications open in September
AGRICULTURE Minister, Michelle Gildernew, has announced that the second tranche of the Farm Modernisation Programme (FMP) will open for applications in early September 2010.
The Minister also revealed that she is seeking to bring forward a third tranche of the Programme and a further tranche of the Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS) as soon as possible
In the interim, a full Equality Impact Assessment of the FMP will be undertaken.
Commenting on the consultation, the Minister said: "I am keen that the second Tranche of FMP should prioritise those farm businesses within Less Favoured Areas where the ability to invest and modernise without assistance is more constrained.
“Farmers in these areas face permanent hardship as a result of poor agricultural conditions and we must do all that we can to ensure that farming communities in such harsh environments are not lost.
"However, I acknowledge that responses to our earlier equality screening exercise raised some concerns and I have therefore decided to proceed to a full Equality Impact Assessment.
"This will involve a consultation period which will run from 9 July until 3 September 2010. This will enable the scheme to open by early September, in sufficient time for farmers to receive payment in the current financial year 2010/11.
"Following this launch, and subject to affordability, I intend to bring forward a third tranche of Farm Modernisation and a further tranche of METS. Initial thinking on the third tranche of the Farm Modernisation Programme is that priority could be given to the degree of modernisation and young farmers.
“I am keen that work is progressed as quickly as possible. Discussions have already started with the UFU and I have asked my officials to commence consultation with other industry stakeholders."
The consultation document is available on the DARD website.
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Thursday 09 February 2012
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