1 November 2019
By Mary Bermingham
mary@TheCork.ie
A national allocation of €600,000 has been provided for Irish agricultural shows in 2020, approximately €55,000 of which has been granted to West Cork agriculture shows.
Senator Tim Lombard began his political career as a Cork County Cllr and is now a Senator, hoping to be a TD in Cork South West at the next General election.
Cork Senator and member of the Agriculture committee Tim Lombard said: “Agricultural shows are hugely important to our rural economy. We know the social and economic benefit they bring to local areas here in Cork, with the surrounding towns and villages also benefitting hugely from each show.
“The Government considers this an important investment in rural communities and I am delighted that my colleague Minister Ring has provided this funding.
“The shows in West Cork set to receive a grant of approx. €5,000 each are:
- Ballygarvan Agri Show
- Bandon Agri Show
- Bantry Agri Show
- Barryroe Show
- Belgooly & District Show
- Carbery Show
- Clonakilty Show
- Dunmanway Show
- Leap Horse & Pony Show
- Schull Show
- West Cork Horse Show
“This funding allocation takes into account the fact that smaller shows in particular have struggled in recent years because of adverse weather and increased costs. This funding will be a great boost to these events and I commend the dedicated volunteers who work so hard on making the shows happen every year.
“Agriculture shows have been a mainstay of the local summer in rural Cork; I hope that this funding will enable these shows to continue to thrive.”