There has been a strong response to date from farmers in Kerry to get involved in the Kerry Social Farming Project. The project aims to build closer links between the farming community and people with additional needs.
South Kerry Development Partnerships Rural Development Officer Joseph McCrohan said that they are delighted to date with the numbers of farmers interested in being involved with this innovative project. “Farmers from many areas of the county have expressed an interest in taking part in the scheme but we would still be delighted to hear from others, particularly in the area stretching from Kenmare to Waterville in South Kerry” Joseph said.
Joseph added that the farmers involved will open their farm gate to people with additional needs to come and spend time on their farm and enjoy the experience of being with animals and plants in a safe and friendly environment. While on the farms people will be encouraged to participate in the farming activities of the day and build relationships with the wider community. In Social Farming, the farm remains a working farm at its core but invites people to participate in the activities of the farm.
The Kerry Social Farming project is being promoted through a working group which consist of members from South Kerry Development Partnership Ltd, Kerry Parents and Friends, St John of God Kerry Services, North & East Kerry Development, Cunamh Iveragh and Kerry Down Syndrome.
The working group have an open mind on the type of farm required and training will be provided to assist farmers that want to develop a Social Farm.
Other farmers who are interested in getting more information on the scheme, or who wish to sign up are asked to contact Joseph McCrohan by e-mail on [email protected] or by phone on 066 9472724 // 087 2849165. In the North Kerry area farmers can contact Seamus O’Hara by e-mail on [email protected] or by phone on 066 9180190 // 087 1231429.
“This project is likely to be an incredibly worthwhile experience for all involved” Joseph concluded.
