Seven summer agricultural shows in Donegal are to receive €7,000 each next year under a new funding allocation.
Donegal TD Joe McHugh announced today that €49,000 has been granted to Donegal as part of a national allocation by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD, which will benefit almost 120 agricultural shows throughout the country in 2018.
Donegal’s share of the grant will be divided between shows in Glencolmcille, Ardara, Inishowen, Finn Valley, Clonmany, Meenacross and Ballyshannon.
“Agricultural shows are hugely important to the rural economy. We know the economic benefit they bring to our local economy here in Donegal with surrounding towns and villages benefitting hugely from each show,” said Minister McHugh.
“The Government considers this funding an important investment in rural communities and I am delighted that my colleague Minister Ring has granted this funding for Donegal.”
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring TD said: “This represents a substantial investment in rural communities and in the rural economy by the Government. I know that this funding will provide a huge boost to the agricultural shows that are such an integral part of our rural culture.
“I know that many shows have struggled in recent years as a result of adverse weather and increased costs. These shows have been a mainstay of the local summer and their absence has been keenly felt. I hope that this once-off funding will help prevent that situation recurring next year and will help these shows to get back on a sound footing.”
This investment is being carried out in coordination with the Irish Shows Association and the recipients are all members of that Association. Additional shows affiliated to the Irish Shows Association may be added to the list at a later stage.
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