Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, visited Raphoe Mart as well as a progressive young Letterkenny sheep farmer today.
Raphoe Mart had one of its largest sheep sales for the year with over 2,000 head offered for sale. The Muslim festival Eid Ul Adha begins next week with Irish sheep in strong demand.
“I as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine as well as the rest of the government stand firmly behind our sheep farmers and I recognise the importance of this week to the overall sheep trade,” Minister McConalogue said.
“Thankfully farmers are obtaining strong prices and are being rewarded for their hard work, commitment and dedication to producing a world-class product.
“While I cannot control or interfere with prices, the Department and I are continually seeking new markets for our produce.”
Minister McConalogue with local farmer, Adrian Gallagher.
Minister McConalogue also visited Adrian Gallagher, a young sheep farmer from near Letterkenny.
“Adrian is a top-class farmer with a tremendous flock of sheep. I am committed to continuing to help our young farmers through my own Department as well as the next CAP. Funding for young farmers has risen in the next CAP for young farmers and I support generational renewal to ensure we have the best and brightest coming into our sector. I was glad to be able to share views with Adrian and it was great to hear his constructive views.”