The large attendance by farmers at a Teagasc information day, held in Carlow on the 16th of February, on bioenergy crops shows that there are high levels of interest in the potential of this sector. With the cashflow pressures being felt by many in Agriculture, the recent launch of the new Bio-energy Scheme and the planting season from Miscanthus fast approaching, the timing of this event in Oakpark was opportune.

In his introduction to the event Professor Gerry Boyle highlighted the current opportunities for diversification provided for within funding to Agriculture. He presented this as being particularly the case for those interested in producing crops for energy.

The participants heard that Teagasc are pursuing  research to optimise the profitability for farmers in producing biomass crops, Mr Barry Caslin highlighted the challenges and the best practices associated with willow and miscantus production in Ireland while Mr Fintan Phelan provided participants with an analysis of the prospective income which could be expected for biomas production.  Mr Mel Mc Donagh of the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food provided a comprehensive presentation on the new bioenergy measure within the Rural Development Programme.

Many of the speakers highlighted the need to address the issue of markets for biomass crops. Professor Boyle used the opportunity to announce the intention of Teagesc to convert many of their facilities to biomass energy. He called on other public agencies to develop procurement policies which generated starter markets for biomass.

Mr Pat Rath  of Wexford Local Development and Wexford Farmers Co-op further echoed the need for the government to create policies and practical measures which drive the development of an indigenous and profitable industry which provides value for money and the environment.

Both Barry Caslin and John Finnan both highlighted the role of LEADER in linking producers with potential end users. The success of the Clare Wood Chip Project was referred to as a model where the issue of markets was addressed in a practical way.

The presence of several commercial  companies in the business of buying and producing biomas added to the value of the event for farmers as were the demonstrations at the Teagasc Oakpark facility.