Farmers’ markets on the rise

THE number of farmers’ markets has more than doubled, now 112 compared to about 50 in February 2005, according to recent Department of Agriculture and Food figures.

Minister Mary Coughlan has revealed initiatives to further develop the markets.

Bord Bia will produce an information guide on farmers markets as an alternative sales route for small business, farmers and entrepreneurs. And Teagasc, supported by Bord Bia, will run a series of farmers market training courses, starting in 2007, targeted at existing and potential new entrants farmers’ markets, and providing knowledge, skill and competence for direct selling of food products in compliance with food safety and product liability legislation.

A full listing of farmers markets is on the www.bordbia.ie website. According to Minister Coughlan, they make a major contribution to the local economy.