ICSA Suckler chair Jimmy Cosgrave has welcomed the announcement by Minister McConalogue today that in-person training will be provided as an option for SCEP participants. “This is something that ICSA looked for and I am pleased that the Minister has seen the merit in our argument. The decision will come as a great relief to many farmers who faced considerable challenges with the online training for a variety of reasons,” he said.

Mr Cosgrave said that while the option to complete the training online will suit many participants it was vital to include an in-person option to ensure no farmer got left behind. “A lot of our suckler farmers are older and living in remote areas and would have really struggled with completing the seven required modules. Now, at least, they will have the opportunity to meet with other farmers and complete the training in an environment where they will have all the necessary support.”

“The SCEP scheme is an important one in terms of reaching our climate targets and in terms of financially supporting suckler farmers. The goal is to get as many farmers as possible through the scheme to secure those benefits and I am pleased common sense has prevailed on this issue.”