Organic Farming Scheme to reopen to Kildare entrants from November 3

The Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) is set to reopen to entrants from County Kildare from Friday, November 3.

The OFS is an agri-environment measure under the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s CAP Strategic Plan.

Drystock farmers entering into a contract could qualify for yearly payments of up to €300 per hectare during the conversion period and up to €250 per hectare when they have achieved full organic status.

Higher payment rates are available for organic horticultural and tillage farmers, while an an annual participation payment of €2,000 in the first year of conversion and €1,400/annum thereafter has been introduced to support organic farmers. 

The announcement was welcomed by Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, who said: "I am delighted to welcome the reopening of the scheme in what is the latest example of the Government’s strong vision for organic farming.

"In the last year alone, the number of organic farms has doubled and I anticipate huge interest from farmers nationally and here in Kildare in applying to the scheme."

She added: "Fianna Fáil in government wants to see farmers supported to pursue the agricultural activity that best suits their farm and their farm family and the organic farming scheme represents a very attractive opportunity for farmers."

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O'Loughlin.