West Tyrone Sinn Fein Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Fitzgerald Welcomes IT training for Tyrone farmers

Published: 28 July, 2010

Mid Tyrone Sinn Féin Councillor Anne Marie Fitzgerald has welcomed a new scheme to provide IT training for low-paid workers in rural parts of Co Tyrone. The scheme was launched by Department of Agriculture and Rural Development minister, Michelle Gildernew earlier this week.

The scheme will see farmers in Carrickmore and the surrounding area being taught a number of computer courses at the Milestone Centre in the village through the 'Camowen Farmers are IT' programme.

The scheme is aimed at assisting members of the farming community to access web-based agricultural information, including services from the Department.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will provide funding for the training which amounts to £416,000.

Local Sinn Fein councillor Anne Marie Fitzgerald welcomed the new scheme:

"The use of the internet within the past number of years has been extraordinary. Given the huge reliance on the internet and online facilities in todays age it is essential that people can access the information and services which are provided online. This training programme is a welcome mechanism to ensure that farmers can gain access the internet.

"The website of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is very extensive in the services and advice offered. All major applications for anything from Single Farm Payments to Agri-Enviromental schemes are available on the website. Hopefully this scheme will enable farmers to access this information and further assist them in their agricultural business.

Launching the scheme DARD Minister, Michelle Gildernew had this to say:

"The current level of IT uptake across the north is lower than I would like to see.I hope others will follow their example and get more farmers and rural dwellers online."

"It is anticipated that 12,000 rural people will benefit either directly or indirectly from these projects. Locally based projects like 'Camowen Farmers are IT' are key in terms of addressing rural poverty and social exclusion issues.