Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the progress that has been made. I have often said that there are lots of women farmers but the problem is they are not recognised as such. I just want to touch on one aspect, namely, the EIPs. The strategic plan states there will be potential for women-centred EIPs. Considering this is one of the three aspects of the plan in place to support women farmers, can the Minister give us an idea of how many of the operations will be specifically targeted to support women in agriculture? I understand there are 30 in total. What will the criteria be in terms for how those applications are judged? If we are to have only a handful, it is crucial they deliver concrete opportunities for women farmers that can be built and expanded upon.

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