Thousands of euro in funding has been allocated to local agricultural shows.
A total of €30,930 was awarded to the county’s five shows.
One of the oldest in the country, Strokestown Show, which will take place on Saturday September 13th, received €9,205; Roscommon Agricultural Show, which takes place on Saturday, August 16th, received €8,350; Elphin Agricultural Show, which takes place on Saturday August 30th, received €8,350; and Boyle Summer Show, which takes place on August 10th, received €6,700.
Funding also was awarded to Athlone Agricultural Show, Ballinasloe Horse and Agri Show, Glenamaddy District Ploughing & Agricultural Show, and Longford Agriculture Show.
Over the weekend, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary announced an investment of over €1 million to support 123 Agricultural Shows right across the country.
As part of the initiative, each show will receive a grant of between €4,260 and €11,410 depending on their size. This funding will support the work of each of the 123 show committees as they prepare for the upcoming show season.
The funding announced today brings the total allocated to our Agricultural Shows since 2018 to over €5.3 million.
Minister Calleary made the announcement as he launched the 2025 Yearbook for Irish Show’s Association (ISA) at an event in the Athlone Springs Hotel on Saturday.
Minister Calleary said agricultural shows are a key component of life in rural Ireland.
“Although farming practices have changed, agriculture is still the backbone of life in rural Ireland and plays a vital role in our national economy,” he said. “The agricultural show as we know it has so much to offer, not just in terms of the competitive element, but also as a platform for local businesses, local farmers and for local craft and artisan food producers. The local show is also one of the best days of the year for meeting neighbours and friends.” The Department of Rural and Community Development will work with the Irish Shows Association (ISA) to administer the 2025 scheme.
Minister Calleary continued:
“Community events across the country like the Agricultural Shows would not be possible without the ‘Meitheal’ that is so evident in rural Ireland. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the show committees, the many dedicated volunteers and stewards, sponsors, local businesses and organisations that each do their bit to ensure their local show is such a success.
“I would strongly encourage people to attend and support their local show. I am sure they will find the show has something to offer everyone.”