Increased allocations to support seven Mayo agricultural shows

INDIVIDUAL allocations of up to €6,000 will go to seven agricultural shows taking place this summer across County Mayo.

Deputy Alan Dillon has welcomed confirmation from his party colleague Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, about the funding.

Said Deputy Dillon: “Coming from rural Ireland I know how much the agricultural shows mean to people in rural communities. This funding will be a huge boost for these shows and it is a fitting recognition of the valuable contribution they make to the economies and communities of rural Ireland.”

The shows and their dates are:

Ballina, July 10

Louisburgh, July 17

Erris, July 24

Claremorris, July 31

Bonniconlon, August 1

Swinford, August 28

Ballinrobe, September 4

Said Deputy Dillon: “Each show will attract funding in the region of €5,000 - €6,000, with funding based on vouched expenditure. I know that this funding will provide a vast boost to the agricultural shows that are such an vital part of our rural culture.

“They are a showcase for local communities and for all that is great about rural Ireland.”

Also welcoming the funding, Deputy Michael Ring stated: “Agricultural shows are a very important event in the rural calendar. They draw huge crowds and are an excellent boost to the local rural economy. There is something for all the family at the shows. They are an extremely enjoyable day out.”

Announcing the individual allocations, Minister Humphreys said: “Practically every weekend over the coming months there is an agricultural show on somewhere in Ireland. I urge people to get out, enjoy them and give them your full support.

“I believe it is of vital importance to our rural communities that we support the efforts of the show committees and the work of their volunteers. I hope this funding will help put the shows on a firmer financial footing and provide vital support to the committees.”

The minister also welcomed the approval of over €313,000 in LEADER programme funding to the Irish Shows Association, which will be used to support the roll out of a national shows management software system for use by agricultural and rural shows nationwide.

This funding was approved by the Local Action Groups (LAGs) in Monaghan, Mayo, Cork West and Galway East as part of the LEADER programme Co-operation Measure.