Opt-in.ie is a new website which provides information on local training and diversification opportunities for rural families.

The website, which was developed by Teagasc, offers diversification opportunities, training, skills and business development.

The advice and training will be provided by local enterprise offices, enterprise training boards, local development companies, Skillsnet and Teagasc.

The portal is being piloted in two counties – Limerick and Tipperary – with the intention of rolling it out nationwide in 2017.

Launching the initiative at the National Ploughing Championships, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Andrew Doyle said: “Opt-In will help equip rural dwellers with the information on training and up-skilling opportunities to help them to diversify their sources of income, and importantly to make the right choices for themselves and their families.”

Rural tourism

Minister Doyle also launched Rural Tourism on Tuesday, a publication aimed at guiding rural dwellers on diversification opportunities in agri-tourism.

“Rural Tourism is a perfect way to encourage tourist footfall out of the towns and cities. There is such diversity in rural Ireland’s visitor activities and attractions, as well as in our specialist farm food producers. This publication provides important guidance which complements the resurgent interest in Irish food, heritage and holidays,” he said.

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Full coverage: Ploughing 2016