Farm Diversification: studies relating to the West of Ireland

The economic challenges now facing farmers are well known. They must re-appraise their business strategies to remain economically viable. Recent EU policy decisions have limited the opportunities for expansion of conventional enterprises while declining levels of price support place increasing emphasis on the need to generate additional income. Diversification to alternate enterprises can provide the means of achieving greater returns from the farm. This report examines the potential and the problems associated with the adoption and development of alternative farm enterprises in the West of Ireland. It investigates the decision-making behaviour of both conventional farm operators and those operating holdings with alternative enterprises. It identifies the options open to farmers, particularly in regard to the range of suitable alternative enterprises and their economic viability. It examines the institutional support structures and identifies the role of organisations concerned with the diversification process.