Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 157: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there is a training scheme available to assist the reskilling of part-time farmers in view of the change in economic circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8101/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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My Department does not operate any scheme of the nature referred to by the Deputy. The Deputy will be aware that I introduced the Rural Social Scheme in order to enable low-income farmers and fisherpersons to earn a supplementary income. The Scheme does not provide for training to assist in reskilling, nor is it intended to.

My Department also manages the LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme, which is implemented throughout the country by Local Action Groups. This includes funding towards training activities in rural areas. While such training does not cover mainstream vocational education or training geared to the general labour market, it does support training for rural communities in implementing the Programme's various measures. In addition, the Programme offers support to farm families in diversifying into non-agricultural activities.