From Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
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Speaking at the Energy and farm Diversification show in Gurteen Agricultural College today Minister of State of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett, announced that additional Brexit Adjustment Reserve funding has been allocated to promote and develop the growing Irish organic sector.
Announcing the funding of €500,000 Minister Hackett said:
“Earlier this year I announced that BAR funding of €1 million has been allocated to allow Bord Bia to promote Irish agricultural produce. This additional funding of €500,000 will be used in the first 6 months of 2024 to build on the work that has already commenced. It is plain to see here today the level of interest and the reality is that there is a need for farmers to diversify. Organic farming is a real opportunity for Irish farmers and I would urge them to ensure they are not losing out on improving their lifestyles and incomes and make the decision to switch to organic farming.
“This additional support will facilitate the delivery of marketing campaigns to highlight to consumers the increasing availability of quality Irish organic food. It will also showcase the sustainable methods used to produce it, which not only benefit the environment but also promote the highest animal welfare standards."
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine have been working in partnership with Bord Bia in identifying further opportunities for Irish farmers and processors to grow their organic presence and increase market share through this funding.
In response to the announcement, Jim O’Toole, CEO, Bord Bia said:
"The additional BAR funding is another very welcome addition to the ongoing investment in the Irish organic sector. This fund will further enhance Bord Bia’s range of activities, all designed to support the long term growth of the organic sector in Ireland and abroad.”
The Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) fund aims to provide financial support to the Member States, regions and sectors most affected by Brexit to deal with the adverse economic, social, territorial and, where appropriate, environmental consequences. Ireland, as the Member State most affected, has received a significant allocation of over €1 billion, or just over 20% of the entire Reserve.
The Designated Body for managing and deciding on the Reserve in Ireland is the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, and it is co-ordinating Ireland’s overall policy position on the BAR. The eligibility criteria set by the EU to qualify expenditure under the Reserve are stringent, and any proposed expenditure must demonstrate a direct link to negative impacts arising from Brexit.