Teagasc Runs 50 Special Training Courses

2 February, 2004

Teagasc has announced a nationwide schedule of special courses aimed at farmers who require qualifications in order to qualify for state and EU supports.

The courses are aimed primarily at part-time farmers with third level training or equivalent who need an agricultural qualification to avail of stamp duty exemption, installation aid and other benefits under farm investment and quota-based schemes.

Announcing the schedule of courses, Paddy Browne, Head of Education with Teagasc, said twenty three 100 hour courses in agriculture and twenty seven 80 hour courses in farm management will be held at Teagasc training centres and colleges during the remainder of 2004. The majority of these courses will be held at evenings and weekends in order to facilitate the work schedules of participants.

He said the courses are now nationally accredited by the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC). Therefore, all participants will be required to undergo appropriate assessments during the courses.

Paddy Browne said that in addition to the management skills which these courses confer there are also major immediate financial benefits.

“In the case of a farm valued at €500,000, the stamp duty saving amounts to €22,500 where the farm is inherited and €45,000 where the farm is purchased. The courses also enable young farmers who are eligible for installation aid to receive a payment of €9,523,” he said.

Full details on each course are available from the relevant Teagasc office or college.