Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, has announced the schedule for in-person training events for participants in the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP). As part of the SCEP program, farmers are required to complete a mandatory training course on scheme actions and livestock handling by November 15, 2024. Failure to complete the course by the deadline will result in farmers being ineligible to remain in the program and may have to repay any funds received.
In response to concerns about farmers, particularly older individuals and those with poor internet connections, struggling with the online training, the minister has organised in-person training events. This move demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all farmers can access the necessary training to participate effectively in the program.
The SCEP in-person training sessions will run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Department staff will present all seven modules to farmers who are unable to complete the training online. It is essential for participants to note that they cannot send a replacement in their stead and must provide photo ID to verify their attendance.
The schedule for the in-person training events is as follows:
– Monday, September 30: Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny
– Tuesday, October 1: Bloomfield House Hotel, Mullingar Co. Westmeath
– Wednesday, October 2: McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris, Co. Mayo
– Thursday, October 3: Charleville Park Hotel, Charleville, Co. Cork
– Friday, October 4: Jacksons Hotel, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal
Attendees must register in advance with the department and be present for the full duration of the in-person training, which will last approximately five hours. Failure to register in advance may result in not securing a spot on the day if the venue is at full capacity. It is important for participants to allow sufficient travel time to reach the training location as it will commence promptly at 9:30 a.m.
As of September 9, the department reported that almost 5,400 farmers have successfully completed the SCEP training online, with a further 2,360 currently working through the modules. This amounts to 46% of all SCEP participants having engaged with the training system. The online option remains the most preferred for many participants as it affords flexibility in choosing the date, time, and location for training.
While the majority of participants opt for online training, the in-person events cater to farmers who lack internet access or face challenges in accessing online resources. Minister McConalogue emphasised the importance of offering both online and in-person training options to accommodate the diverse needs of farmers participating in the program.
To register for an in-person training event or address any queries regarding SCEP or SCEP training, participants can email scep@agriculture.gov.ie, call the DAFM helpdesk at 057 8674422, or register in person by visiting the SCEP desk at the National Ploughing Championships.
In conclusion, the announcement of in-person training events for SCEP participants is a significant step towards ensuring the inclusion of all farmers in the program. By offering both online and face-to-face training options, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is working to support farmers in meeting program requirements and improving carbon efficiency in the industry. Farmers are encouraged to engage with the training opportunities provided to maximise the benefits of the SCEP program and enhance sustainability in the agricultural sector.
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