eServices Village at Teagasc Agriculture and Food 06

The decoupling of farm subsidies from production has prompted farmers to take a hard look at their options for the future. Agriculture and Food 06, which takes place at Teagasc Kildalton on June 21, will provide a platform for farm families to explore the best way for their business to respond in this rapidly changing world.

“What are the opportunities, what are the risks, how should farmers make decisions to change? These were the questions posed by Tom Kelly, Programme Manager, Teagasc Advisory Directorate, speaking at the launch of this major Teagasc event in Kildalton Agricultural College today, Thursday April 20.

He went on to say, “Having looked at the different farming systems and enterprises, there is no magic option within the farm gate for most farmers (unless energy crops come good). All the main farm enterprises dairy, cattle, sheep and tillage must be farmed efficiently, and even then they may erode into the Single Farm Payment giving little encouragement for investment.”

One of the highlights of Agriculture and Food 06 will be a special eServices village.
“The ICT village will highlight the computer technology services available to farmers from Teagasc, Government services and commercial companies. With the ever increasing burden of paperwork on farms, the use of ICT must be a priority – information is power“, according to Tom Kelly.

Teagasc will be launch its new National Text Messaging Service which will enable Teagasc advisers text important information to farmers. This service will also enable local polls to be carried out quickly and efficiently. It is planned to carry out a text survey of farmers attending the Event.

Agriculture and Food 06 will provide an opportunity for farmers to explore the new farm buildings grant scheme – the Farm Waste Management Scheme, which is now in place. Details on the levels of grant available, the level of investment that can be justified and the pitfalls of the scheme will be outlined. A comprehensive range of supports for farmers who are planning to avail of the scheme will be available, concluded the Teagasc Programme Manager.