The new Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS II) was launched last week and has a budget of €395m over the course of the five year scheme.

The scheme is open initially for young, trained farmers from all sectors. Farmers who are under 40, have a level six agricultural education and have commenced farming in the past five years will be eligible for 60% grant aid on new buildings as well as for the upgrading of old farm infrastructure. A total of €120m has been set aside between 2015 and 2020 for young farmers.

TAMS II provides grants for sheep and cattle handling units to dairy parlour upgrades (including robotic milking machines) to grants for the pig and poultry sectors. Farmers can also apply for funding to help rewire or upgrade lighting systems in their yards.

Applications must be submitted through an online uploading system on the Department of Agriculture's website www.agriculture.gov.ie. This system is expected to open on 28 May and close at the end of August. The full list of approved items under TAMS II can also be found on the Department's website.