Clare Senator Tony Mulcahy says the Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is open to all horticultural sectors, including protected crops, nursery crops, field vegetables, soft fruit, apples, beekeeping and mushrooms. In previous years, numerous Clare producers have benefited from funding under the Scheme.
“Since its launch in 2000, there has been a year on year increase in the level of interest in this scheme, which reflects the high degree confidence among Clare’s producers in the future of the sector. I would encourage shoppers to support local producers who are striving to meet the highest standards. By supporting them we are making an investment in our own community,” stated Senator Mulcahy.
The Fine Gael Senator added: “The fact that in 2012 applicants sought almost three times what was available under the Scheme indicates there will be a very strong demand once again for this competitive grant aid scheme. I would urge eligible commercial producers in Clare to submit their applications for funding as soon as is practicable. Finally, I am delighted to learn that the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney, TD has maintained the same level of funding for 2013.”
Under the €3.25m scheme, grant aid is provided at a rate of 40% (50% in the case of qualifying young farmers) for approved capital investments undertaken by mid-October this year. The closing date for receipt of applications is 15th February 2013 and only investments which commence after the issue of the respective letter of approval will be eligible for aid.
Source: HortiTrends News Room
