Local food markets a ‘new route to consumer’

THE growth in local food markets countrywide was hailed yesterday as an opportunity for small-scale producers to move closer to the consumer.

Food Minister Noel Treacy, who was officially opening a farmers’ market at Monivea in Co Galway, said these outlets are a pioneering route to market for farmers and small food producers in Ireland.

“Nationally, farmers’ markets are essential as live incubation centres for new food businesses which are crucial in a post CAP reform environment for diversifying farmers,” he said.