Farmers put new equipment to the test at show

ABOUT 20m worth of machinery and equipment was put on display by 110 exhibiting companies at the Farm Machinery Show which opened at Punchestown Event Centre in Naas, Co Kildare, yesterday and which continues until tomorrow.

Agriculture and Food Minister Joe Walsh, officially opened the event, which is expected to attract by up to 13,000 farmers and contractors.

Machines of every type associated with profitable farming is on show and technical experts from manufacturing and servicing companies are on hand to give friendly advice to visitors.

One of the traditional main attractions of the Farm Machinery Show, being held at a venue outside Dublin for the first time, is the lack of duplication of machinery or equipment.

Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association president Edwin Pratt said mechanisation plays a key role in farming productivity and prosperity.

Farmers and contractors have shown their determination to progress, even in times of adversary.

Despite poor weather conditions in 2002, there was a better than expected level of business in the farm machinery industry.

“Progressive farmers have maintained their enthusiasm for the future of their industry and FTMTA members will continue to support them and stand over our long-standing motto - What We Sell We Service,” he said.

Mr Pratt said the FTMTA is looking forward to 2003 with renewed vigour.

New technology continues to advance the scope for better profits and farmers are quick to identify these opportunities, he said.