Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney announced the rollout on Wednesday, saying that the training aspect of the BDGP is a “critical element” of the programme. The course will be run by Teagasc and will be rolled out across the country, commencing on Monday 21 March.

The training will provide clear information to farmers with regard to the requirements at individual farm level, as well as information on genomics and breeding selection.

“The course will equip farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimise delivery of the commitments undertaken under the programme. The course will also increase the participants’ knowledge of genomics and breeding selection, focusing on the shifting emphasis to maternal traits in order to bring about efficiencies that will result in reduced green house gas emissions,” Coveney said.

Invitation for all participants

All BDGP participants will be invited to attend the training in the coming months.

Participants are being asked to respond to the invitation when received and notify Teagasc of their attendance using the notification system set out in the invitation.

In the event that the BDGP participant cannot attend, it will be possible to nominate somebody to attend on their behalf.

The cost of training will be covered separately under the Rural Development Programme, with farmers receiving €166 in addition to their annual scheme payments for successful completion of the course.

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Lots of discussion at BDGP pilot training days