Coughlan extends Bioenergy Scheme deadline
- Establishment Grants for Planting Willow and Miscanthus -The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Mary Coughlan TD, has announced an extension of the deadline for receipt of applications under the Bioenergy Scheme.
The Minister said applications for pre-planting would now be accepted until 30 March 2007.
She also advised farmers that applications would be processed immediately when received by her Department to enable successful applicants commence planting without delay.
The Minister reminded farmers that the scheme offers establishment grants for up to 50% of the costs associated with establishing miscanthus and willow for use as a renewable source of energy. Farmers can receive up to ?1,450 per hectare towards establishment costs.
The Minister urged farmers who wish to apply for the establishment grants to ensure that their application forms are fully completed and submitted to the Department at the earliest possible date as there is an overall limit on the hectarage which may be grant aided this year.
Concluding the Minister stated: "I am confident that these new arrangements will provide every farmer with the opportunity to submit an application for pre-planting approval."
NOTE TO EDITORSThe Application Form for Pre-Planting Approval and supporting documentation are available on the Department's website at www.agriculture.gov.ie and from
Biofuels Policy Unit,
Department of Agriculture & Food,
Kea-Lew Business Park,
Mountrath Road,
Portlaoise,
Co. Laois.
Telephone 057- 8692231 or E-mail bioenergy@agriculture.gov.ie
28 February 2007
Date Released: 28 February 2007
