Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
389. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to review an application (details supplied) under the 2026 Rural Innovation and Development Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23320/26]
View answerSocial farming has been shown to provide benefits to participants such as improved community connections and relationships, increased self-esteem and capacity, improved health and well-being as well as providing the opportunity to develop occupational and life skills from engaging in farm-based activities.
My Department has recently published the Call for Tender for Social Farming model projects. The tender submission deadline is 24/04/26 at 12:00.
Funding of €377,000 is available this year subject to a maximum of €150,000 for any one project. There will be an option to extend contracts awarded for a further four years.
Each eligible tender received will be evaluated in accordance with public procurement guidelines as published by the Office for Government Procurement.
