New Entrants Scheme extended in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland agriculture minister Michelle Gildernew has announced an extension to the closing date of the province’s New Entrants Scheme.

The scheme pays farmers under 40 years of age up to £17,000 of interest, over a five-year period, on loans invested for an agricultural purpose.

“The scheme was originally due to close in June 2008,” said Ms Gildernew. “I am pleased to announce that, subject to the necessary legislative amendments, the closing date will be extended to 27 February 2009, or when the £4.5m budget has been fully committed, whichever comes sooner.”

The minister made her announcement on a visit to young farmer Lindley Houston’s (pictured, above, with Ms Gildernew) 179ha farm near Onagh, Co Tyrone.

He has invested in a new cubicle house and feed passage for the dairy herd, facilitating improved cow comfort and mechanised diet feeding.

All of this development was supported through the New Entrants Scheme, paying interest on the money borrowed.