Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Byrne for submitting this question. The Department operates a number of schemes in the horticulture sector. They may be availed of by wine producers in the context of the grape-growing aspect of their production. The two schemes are the scheme for investment aid for innovation and diversification in horticulture, which supports feasibility and desk studies, and the scheme of investment aid for innovation and diversification in horticulture, which provides funding for capital investment. These schemes are aimed at increasing innovation and diversification in the horticulture sector. The feasibility studies scheme is aimed at small- and medium-sized enterprises, SMEs, engaging in primary horticulture production which would like to innovate and diversity in the horticultural industry. The capital investment scheme is intended to assist in increasing innovation and diversification in horticulture with grant aid in capital investment and specialised plant and equipment to microenterprises and SMEs active in primary horticulture production. A number of vine growers have been supported under this scheme in the past.

A budget of €8.5 million was allocated for the implementation of these schemes in 2025.

The call for applications closed in February. Should these schemes reopen for applications in 2026, this will be widely advertised through the Department's website, on social media, in the farming press and through stakeholders such as Teagasc and An Bord Bia.

Additionally, I encourage producers to engage with their local enterprise offices. These offices are a valuable resource to local small businesses because they can provide advice and sometimes funding to assist in the development of businesses. It may also be of interest to producers to make contact with their local action groups in respect of the LEADER programme. These groups contain local representatives from the community, public and private sector and award funding to projects within their geographical area in accordance with their local development strategy.

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