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16 February 2005 - Agriculture to Benefit
From Defra Funding
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Farmers in North Northumberland will benefit from funding
provided by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
The funding awarded to the North Northumberland Agricultural Training
Association (NNATA), from Defra's Vocational Training Scheme (VTS), will provide
training in health and safety practices within the agricultural industry.
Grants of up to 75% are available to training providers or
individuals selected who meet the quality criteria. There have
already been 126 farmers and farm workers signed up.
The courses will provide training on areas such as, usage of
work transport equipment, (of which there has been major increases in accidents
whilst using fork lift trucks and terrain vehicles), pesticides, spraying and
chainsaw usage.
Training Officer for the NNATA commented:
"The association was set up more than 30 years ago to help
local farmers obtain training at local venues to help ensure they have the
skills they need to run their businesses successfully.
"The changes in agriculture over the years now demand that
farming enterprises address health and safety issues and look at new ways of
working.
"The funding received through Defra's Vocational Training
Scheme has been invaluable. These courses help reduce health and safety risks
and give farming enterprises the opportunity to consider areas in which to
diversify and improve productivity. While being a legislative requirement, the
courses also offer a first step to access more advanced training helping ensure
a skilled and flexible workforce."
Whilst the Adviser at Defra's Rural Development Service in the
North East said:
"VTS grants are available to both individuals and
organisations to help cover the costs of a wide range of training from dry stone
walling to IT skills.
"It's essential farmers and others in rural areas can access
training at local venues, not only to meet legislative requirements but also to
upgrade and enhance their skills to ensure the future viability of their
businesses."
Article by Alexandra Johnston
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