Information Guide On Farm Diversification Launched

The leaflet also sets out the importance of having planning permission in place in order for DARD to release grant payment and to check whether the proposal is eligible for grant funding. It also provides contact details for DARD’s rural enterprise advisors (who give advice on farm diversification project ideas and business development) and Local Action Groups (who provide information on grant funding, eligibility and the grant application process). When applying for planning permission, applicants should submit a letter stating that they are applying for grant funding in order that their application is given priority. Minister Gildernew welcomed the new information guide explaining that it had been produced by collaborative working between Planning Service and DARD Rural Development staff. She added, “This is a good clear guide which has the information that farm families need when thinking about taking on a Diversification Project. It also sign posts those with potential diversification projects to officials and organisations who can help evaluate ideas and where possible move them forward. It will help those considering farm diversification projects to move more quickly from the ideas stage to investment.”]]>