Measure 1.6 Training For Farmers (ICT)
The objective of this measure is to enable farmers to improve the use of Information Communications Technology in their farm businesses.
COLLAGE Ltd are one of Ten Regional Project Promoters for this measure.

	Recruit farmers for ICT training
	Engage trainers to train farmers in an applied agricultural context using an agreed programme incorporating ECDL . This should be delivered in cross community groups.
	Engage mentors to support and mentor trainees on a one to one basis to help them apply their new competences to their farm business.
	Provide financial assistance to trainees for the hardware/software necessary to help them achieve ECDL and to apply this training to their business.
	Encourage farmers to share their experiences via group events.

This is not open yet, but it is hoped to commence the programme in the spring.

Measure 1.7A Obtaining Alternative Employment
The objective of this measure is to facilitate the re-skilling of farmers either to secure off-farm employment or to acquire the expertise required to develop an on-farm diversification.
COLLAGE Ltd is one of the Regional Project Promoters selected to run this programme who will:

	Facilitate farmers and farm families through change management programmes, helping them to identify re-skilling or diversification opportunities through which they may secure alternative employment.
	Provide counselling support to farm families to assist farmers and farm families to acquire the skills suited to off-farm employment or setting up non-traditional on-farm diversifications through the preparation of individual training plans.
	Identify barriers preventing farmers and farm families from reskilling.
	Fund trainees to undertake appropriate training courses, and assess and provide barrier assistance.
	Select, individual diversification projects using established criteria and provide them with seedcorn capital funding.

It is hoped that farmers will be able to participate in the programme from spring 2003.