Young Farmers Encouraged to Join Discussion Groups
05 January 2010
Macra na Feirme national president Michael Gowing encouraged all young dairy farmers to apply to the new Dairy Efficiency Programme which focuses on the expansion of dairy discussion groups and increased farmer participation.
Mr. Gowing said Macra in partnership with Teagasc had developed a successful model of discussion groups specifically for young farmers called 3C. There are a number of very successful dairy 3C groups operating around the country.
The ‘3C’ title highlights the fact that the groups are for Committed young farmers who are interested in Contributing in a group and who are willing to respect the Confidentiality of information disclosed at meetings.
Each 3C group consists of between 10-20 young farmers and are facilitated by a specialist Teagasc Advisor. To join a 3C group farmers have to be under 35, closely involved in the decision making on the farm and interested in discussing their farm business with other young farmers.
The new Dairy Efficiency Programme initiative is open to existing members of discussion groups and those wishing to join or form groups for the first time and the rate of payment for participation will be determined by the numbers involved. Completed application forms should be with your facilitator by the 19th February 2010, further information is available on www.agriculture.gov.ie or www.macra.ie
The DEP1 rules are available from the download section of the Macra.ie website
