Agriculture and Rural Development Priority (Sub-Programme)

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6.10 Impact on the Environment

6.10.2 Impact of the Agriculture and Rural Development Priority on the Environment

The overall impact should be very positive. In the first instance, the Sub-measure to be operated by Teagasc Advisory Services will focus on a specific number of strategic areas, i.e. the environment, food safety/quality assurance and information technology. In relation to the environment, the focus will be on attracting the maximum number of farmers to participate in REPS. It has already been demonstrated that improved practices on REPS farms are reducing the loss of nutrients to water bodies and the other Measures in REPS are protecting habitats and the rural landscape. Also, as can be seen, substantial funding is being allocated to improving the environment through a major farm waste management programme and also improving dairy hygiene and animal welfare and grain standards. The Animal Carcase Disposal Sub-measure should have a positive impact on the environment as it will provide a safe means for the disposal of animal carcases and thus minimise disease risks. All actions carried out under the Alternative Enterprises Measure will be subject to environmental conditions and small scale environmental projects will be welcomed under the Area Based Rural Development Initiative.

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