New Organic Farming Scheme to assist farmers in County Waterford – Minister Coffey

Fine Gael Waterford Minister Paudie Coffey has said the announcement of a new Organic Farming Scheme with immediate effect will support farmers to avail of the growing market opportunities that exist for organic food.

“Organic farming is a growing sector and this new scheme represents a 60% increase in funding on the previous scheme. There are some 1,721 registered organic farmers in Ireland and retail sales of organic food are worth more than €99 million a year. There are excellent organic farmers in Waterford, like The Little Milk Company which won an award for exporting last year at the National Organic Awards.

“The new Scheme offers significantly increased rates of aid to Organic farmers, both in conversion and when fully established. Applications for the new scheme must be made online, but there will be no requirement to use an Agricultural Advisor to make the applications.

“The application process itself is quite simple, and most farmers should have no difficulty in submitting their applications. However, those who prefer to have their advisor make the application on their behalf will be able to do so.

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