Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

305. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the scheme of investment aid for the development of the commercial horticulture sector will be made available; if he is aware of the difficulties that the delay in this scheme is having on commercial horticulture farmers, particularly young farmers; if he can reassure farmers that the scheme will be made available in 2023; if he will provide a detailed timeline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20251/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector grant aids capital investments in specialised plant and equipment in the horticulture sector.

The Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector is subject to EU Guidelines for State Aid in the Agricultural and Forestry Sector and in Rural Areas (Agricultural Guidelines). New Agricultural Guidelines came into force on 1st January 2023. As a result, my Department was required to notify the Scheme to the EU Commission under these new Agricultural Guidelines. We are currently awaiting approval from the EU Commission which has resulted in the delayed opening of the 2023 Scheme.

We are fully cognisant of the importance of this Scheme to the horticulture sector and in particular to young farmers. The higher rate of grant aid for young farmers provided by the Scheme is important in retaining younger growers in the horticulture sector and also in encouraging new growers.

The Scheme will open without delay as soon as approval is received