Govt funding for return of agricultural shows

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, announced individual allocations of up to €6,000 to 119 agricultural shows taking place this summer.

Some €700,000 is being provided to support the return of the shows in 2022.

Minister Humphreys said: "I know how much the agricultural shows mean to people in rural communities. Between cattle best of breed, dog shows, sheep and poultry competitions, and music, the events are extremely popular and I’m delighted to support their return to the summer calendar.

"Our shows signals fun, energy and a sense of community - something for all the family. They are a shop window for what is produced locally and bring visitors from near and far.

"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."

Each show will attract funding in the region of €5,000 - €6,000, with funding based on vouched expenditure.

Minister Humphreys added: "I recently announced increased funding of €700,000 to support the Irish Shows Association, and I am delighted to today confirm the individual allocations for shows all across rural Ireland."

"I am particularly pleased to announce funding of up to €6,000 to each show to assist each meet the costs of putting them together - on the back of huge voluntary endeavour. 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 that this funding will help put the shows on a firmer financial footing and provide vital support to the committees.

Shows in the region that received funding included Trim, Nobber, Ballivor, Rolestown at Tattersalls, and the North East Connemara Breeders, Oldcastle, and the upcoming Virginia Show on Wednesday 24th August.