Plea to council on farmers markets

A COMMON approach among local councils in dealing with farmers markets is being sought by Food Minister Trevor Sargent.

He met with local authority mayors, managers, cathaoirligh, and town clerks in Dublin yesterday on the issue.

Direct routes to market for local food with a particular focus on farmers’ markets were discussed.

Mr Sargent said a joined up approach across departments and agencies and dialogue and co-operation with local authority policy makers will strengthen the growth, viability and prosperity of the farmers’ market system in Ireland.

Experience of farmers’ markets and farm shops suggests they can provide wide-ranging benefits, locally and regionally, which can be measured socially, environmentally and economically. These include access to affordable in-season quality fresh food (organic and non-organic) and more money circulating in local economies. Other benefits include the preservation and development of regional specialities, more choice for consumers, and opportunities for producers as well as environmental benefits.

Mr Sargent said recent research has shown that every €10 spent at a farmers’ market results in a net income of €24 for the local community.

“It has been estimated that the trade for other businesses increases by up to 30% when a farmers’ market is run in a town.”