Farmers who are interested in transitioning to organic production only have until Friday 30 April to apply to the Organic Farming Scheme.
The Organic Farming Scheme reopened for new applications from farmers at the beginning of March and closes on Friday.
Irish Minister of State Pippa Hackett has provided funding to allow the scheme to increase the number of farmers farming organically in Ireland this year by 30 per cent.
Minister Hackett has urged farmers to consider taking the step.
“I believe the future is bright for organic farmers. Demand is strong for all types of organic produce, prices are often higher, and crucially, it’s also a less intensive way of farming which comes with lower input costs and which embraces nature and natural processes to produce food,” Minister Hackett added.
Applications can be made through the Department of Agriculture, online system and the application process is straight forward. Information and guidance can be obtained from the Department, Teagasc or farm advisors and the organic certification bodies.
“I want to reassure farmers who are considering taking this step that there is room for everyone, beef and sheep farmers as well as tillage dairy and horticulture enterprises,” said Minister Hackett.
“I also want them to know that the EU is totally committed to supporting this way of farming, and organic farms will be fully integrated into the new CAP scheme when it eventually rolls out in 2023.
LSL News.