Enniskillen College of Agriculture
Agriculture remains the predominant economic activity of Fermanagh, employing 30% of the County’s labour force. The characteristics of the local farming industry coupled with recent changes in CAP present the sector with an uncertain future. Rural development presents an opportunity to address some of the structural problems experienced within the farming sector through the creation and development of alternative economic and social activities which can impact positively on quality of life.
99% of land in Fermanagh is classified as less favoured area and 93% of farms are small and do not provide an acceptable income for farmers. Diversification of farming activities is perceived as a means to increase earnings, as well as opportunities to supplement farm income from off-farm sources of employment.
The strategic objective of the “People and Place” document is “To develop an agri-food industry in Fermanagh that is vibrant, market led, competitive and sustainable, producing quality food in accordance with the highest environmental and welfare standards.”
The action plan priorities initiatives to encourage alternative enterprises and to highlight the value of a development approach in the private and community sectors for diversification and supplementation of rural income, including the encouragement of collaboration, rewarding self help and reducing the current reliance on grant assistance.