Agriculture Minister Applaudes DARD Direct

DARD Direct xa0offers farmers the opportunity to access the Department’s farm business services in one place and provides a greater choice in how business is conducted. xa0 The DARD Direct, Dungannon Office is one of 12 planned DARD Direct offices which offer a one-stop-shop service for DARD’s customers. xa0 The Minister said: “Key to the success of DARD Direct is the establishment and development of a unified approach with admin and technical staff working in xa0partnership to meet customer needs. This is supported by the refurbishment of customer-facing facilities to support farm businesses accessing the services they xa0require.” xa0The Minister added, “I am aware that through the recent Single Farm Payment process over 1,000 customers accessed advice and support through the Dungannon xa0office which is just one example of how DARD Direct is delivering, and will continue to deliver real benefits for farmers and rural dwellers across the north.” The roll out of the DARD Direct Office network has been ongoing since 2006 and to date 6 offices have been completed. The most recent additions are in Downpatrick and xa0Mallusk and a new office will also open in Magherafelt shortly. It is planned to complete 2 further offices in this year.]]>