Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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233. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to propose changes to the length of time it takes to complete the green cert course (details supplied); if so, the nature of these changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45239/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The Green Cert is delivered by Teagasc and has been developed to meet the training requirements for full-time and part-time farmers. It can be completed on a full-time, part-time or distance education basis. The content and duration is a matter for Teagasc and the awarding body Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI). Typically it can take between 18 - 24 months to complete the Cert depending on the chosen learning option.

In 2016, Teagasc and QQI completed a comprehensive review of the Green Cert to ensure that it achieves its purpose and reflects the changing requirements of Irish farming. This review process was led by a Standards Review Group on behalf of QQI and included industry stakeholders. The Standards Review Group recommended strengthening the Green Cert in regard to grass production, livestock breeding and sustainable farming resulting in the credit value of the award being increased from 40 to 50 credits. It is expected that the new award criteria will lead to an increase in contact time depending on the programme delivery format.