Wexford Smallholders Initiative

Wexford Smallholders Initiative

 WEXFORD SMALLHOLDERS INITIATIVE

  The Wexford Smallholders Initiative is a Programme facilitated by Wexford Local Development under the Government’s Local & Community Development  Programme. It was initiated in 1998 as a result of the escalating financial and social difficulties facing smallholders in Co. Wexford resulting from a continuing cost / price squeeze affecting the farming industry. The effects of this were most seriously and immediately felt among smallholders who, because of their scale, did not have the inherent capacity to expand or have the scope to absorb the effects of such adverse economic conditions.

The Programme plays a significant part in dealing with the issues of smallholders, many of whom do not avail of mainstream supports and services.  While it is hard to be definitive in classifying a smallholder the broad criteria applied are those families whose livelihood is derived mainly from farming, and whose household income is less than €18,000 .  This would relate to 60 – 70 Income Units approximately. The farm would typically be less than 40 – 50 hectares depending on location, enterprises quality of land etc.  A household / holistic approach is taken and support across a wide range of socio-economic matters is available. The approach generally is to examine all resources available, look at options and alternatives to improve income / minimise costs and support the family in implementing agreed changes while at the same time planning for the future of the farm business.

The above supports are available under the Wexford Smallholders Initiative, a Programme for smallholders in Co. Wexford and service is delivered on a one to one or group basis depending on requirements.  The service is free and confidentiality is assured.

For further information contact:  Seamus Codd, Wexford Local Development scodd@wld.ie