Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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I fully recognise the significance of social farming for many rural communities throughout the country and the many benefits for disadvantaged groups who are availing of a range of health service supports.  My Department provided funding last year totalling almost €777,000 towards the development of the national Social Farming Network and for the development of the following social farming model projects:

- Leitrim Integrated Development Company CLG – for the provision of a Social Farming Model Project where social farming is mainstreamed as an option for people accessing supports across a range of sectors and services and where placements are fully commissioned.

- Down Syndrome Irl (Cork Branch) – to provide opportunities for participation in a purpose-built farm, the Field of Dreams with horticulture and animal care elements which will bring long lasting wellness benefits to participants.

- South Kerry Development Partnership – for a Social Farming Model Project which will increase participant and host farmers engagement so that the social farming opportunity is available to more people in Kerry and to offer choice to people with disabilities to engage with farm families in meeting their personal life choices.

- IRD Duhallow – for a Social Farming model project which will promote rehabilitation, social inclusion, training and improved quality of life in a non-clinical setting using agriculture including plants and animals for people across a wide spectrum of disability. 

An extension is possible under the terms of these contracts and it is intended that similar funding will be provided in 2022.