Three organisations are to receive continued support for social farming under the Rural Innovation and Development Fund in 2019. The Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed has announced that support of €350,000 will go to the Leitrim Integrated Development Company to develop its network of social farming in Ireland and to progress towards sustainable commissioning arrangements for the provision of social farming placements.

The South Kerry Development Partnership will receive €123,000 to continue to allow people with disabilities to engage with farm families and the community in meeting their personal development goals.

Down Syndrome Ireland (Cork branch) is being provided with €119,504 for a horticulture centre for adults with down syndrome to enable them to participate in meaningful training and to provide “hands-on” horticulture work opportunities.

Extension

Leitrim Development Company has also been awarded an extension to its contract for the design, development and implementation of a social farming network across Ireland.

Minister Creed said: “This important initiative helps to provide a significant service throughout rural communities for disadvantaged groups. Participation in social farming has been shown to provide benefits such as improved community connections and relationships, increased self-esteem and capacity, improved health and well-being and the opportunity to learn new skills.”

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