Minister for Rural and Community Development and local TD Heather Humphreys, has announced funding of €1m to support 122 agricultural shows across the country. Four shows in Cavan and Monaghan have been allocated over €38,000 to help with associated costs.
They include €10,700 for Virginia Show; €9,205 for Castleblayney; €9,205 for Tydavnet; and €9,205 for the Arva Show. Minister Humphreys says this latest investment in the country's much-loved agricultural shows represents a 40% increase on last year's allocation.
She added that they "sum up" all that is good about rural Ireland and are intrinsically linked to the sense of community that rural towns and villages are known for. "The shows are key dates in the summer calendar and are a central point for the agri-food industry, the farming community and our local artisan producers.
"These shows are also a fantastic family day out, where people come to catch up and enjoy a truly unique experience. With entries travelling from far and wide to compete, the local show has something to interest everyone through its wide range of activities and competitions.
"I am delighted to increase the overall level of funding by 40% this year, which I know will really help the organisers in ensuring the shows themselves are a great success. I want to thank and pay tribute to the Irish Shows Association, who I was delighted to meet in recent weeks to discuss their plans for the upcoming summer season," the Minister said.
Meanwhile, this year's €1m allocation brings the total funding to agricultural shows since 2018 to almost €3.3m. The Department of Rural and Community Development is currently working with the Irish Shows Association to administer the Scheme for 2023.
