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5.3.1.1.4 Use of farm and forestry advisory services
BUSINESS AUDIT (Land Managers Options)
Article 20(a)(iv)
Measure Code (114)
Rationale for intervention
Planning is an essential part of successful business management. Unfortunately many land managers are busy dealing with the day to day running of their businesses and have little time to step back, consider the business as a whole and assess its financial viability, environmental sustainability or potential opportunities for development.
There are a number of audits and planning tools available on-line, which we want to encourage land managers to utilise. Making financial support available for planning will encourage farmers and other land managers to take time to carry out an assessment of their business without incurring large costs in consultants fees in drawing up a lengthy plan.
Objectives of the measure
To encourage land managers to plan proactively and develop their business by encouraging them to undertake an audit or health check of their business. This aims to provide a clear picture of the business and enable the land manager to plan more effectively for the future.
Scope and actions
Support will be available for audit/plan fees and any additional cost of a business adviser incurred by land managers who undertake an online or paper based environmental or business audit of their IACS business.
Beneficiaries
Farmers, foresters and other land managers
Description of the operations
A good example of an eligible audit is identified below. Applicants will have to provide evidence that the audit has been completed and give details of the audit undertaken. Support will be offered up to 50% of the costs incurred for the audit to a maximum of €219. For land managers who have undertaken their own audit, a record of labour hours (in the form of a time sheet) must be provided and the skilled labour rate of €11.42 per hour will apply. If applicants employ an advisor to conduct the audit, receipted invoices must be provided in support of the claim.
Support will only be given to businesses which meet requirements of cross compliance and Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition ( GAEC) and Occupational Safety Standards based on Community legislation.
Example of eligible audit
Linking Environment And Farming audit - The LEAF Audit is available online at www.leafaudit.org. It includes all aspects of Integrated Farm Management. Financial support is available towards the €146 fee to become a member of LEAF and undertake this self-assessment.
The Audit is divided into eight sections:
- Organisation and Planning
- Soil Management and Fertility
- Crop Protection Pollution Control and Management
- Animal Husbandry
- Energy Efficiency
- Landscape and Nature Conservation
- Community Relations
Each section can be completed separately or as a whole.
Rate of support
50% of the actual costs up to a maximum of €219 per annum. Invoices or evidence in the form of a labour record to be provided as evidence.
Demarcation role with other EU financial instruments ( ESF)
No other funding is available for this measure.
Transition arrangements (including estimated amount)
Not applicable
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