Gildernew sees environmental benefits of Countryside Management Scheme

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA today visited Florencecourt to see how the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) is helping to enhance the local landscape and biodiversity.

On a visit to the farm of Mr Michael Kerrin, the Minister welcomed the positive response of farmers and landowners to the scheme: "To date, around 12,500 farmers, throughout the north, are participating in agri-environment schemes, with over 900 of them in the new Countryside Management Scheme. It is encouraging that so many of our local farmers and landowners are getting involved, and it is great to see how funding from CMS is helping them to manage their land for the benefit of the environment.

"Doing so not only helps to enhance biodiversity and landscape and improve water quality, but also brings invaluable benefits to society and provides farmers with an important economic opportunity."

Commenting on the work undertaken by Michael as part of his CMS agreement, the Minister continued: "The work undertaken by Michael demonstrates his commitment to adopting farming practices that enhance the local countryside. The stone walls that he has restored are particularly impressive and I have enjoyed hearing about his management of the species-rich calcareous grassland which is not commonly seen elsewhere. Michael’s work is a good example of what can be achieved through participation in the CMS."

Notes to editors:

1. Under Axis II of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, the Agri-environment Measure 2.2 consists of two key elements, the new and improved Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and the new Organic Farming Scheme (OFS). The plans for opening the OFS will be announced later this year.
2. £78 million has already been paid to agri-environment scheme participants under the current Rural Development Programme.
3. The scheme application process is paperless to simplify the process.
4. All media queries to DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.