Ploughing Championships visitors advised to bring wellies amid weather warnings
Holly Jackson having fun in the sunny and wet conditions as she sets up for the National Ploughing Championships at Ratheniska, Co Laois. Picture: Dan Linehan
It can only be hoped that all 300,000 expected attendees to the National Ploughing Championships remember their wellies.
Weather warnings will be in place across much of the country in the coming days, but crowds will still be drawn to Europe’s largest outdoor event in Ratheniska, Co Laois, from Tuesday until Thursday.
Patrons should take extra safety precautions on their journey to the event, with Met Éireann warning of strong winds and heavy rain in many parts.
The annual event for the agriculture community comes as a major debate continues to take place in relation to the expected nitrates derogation cut of 250kg to 220kg from January 1, 2024, meaning many dairy farmers will have to reduce their stock numbers or obtain more land.
Many will be hoping to take the opportunity to raise their concerns with farming representative groups and politicians who turn out over the course of the three-day event.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue is already facing anger from farmers, and recent political think-ins have faced protests.
While Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Environment Minister Eamon Ryan are not due to attend the ploughing as they are in New York for the UN General Assembly this week, other Government ministers can expect a grilling as tension grows.
Visitors can expect to see posters on all routes that highlight the big issues Mr McConalogue is being asked to deal with urgently.
Irish Farmers’ Association president Tim Cullinan said the posters would cover a range of issues, including nitrates, and the delay in farm scheme payments.
“The focus of our interaction with politicians in the coming days will be on the decisions that are needed to maintain the viability of farming,” Mr Cullinan said.
For those braving the elements, organisers say be prepared, with your tickets pre-purchased online in advance, as there may be none available at the gate.
While the use of public transport to the event is encouraged for those attending, motorists are being urged to follow the traffic and parking plan available online and follow signage and the directions given by gardaí and stewards along the route.
With gates opening at 9am each of the three days, people are advised to allow for some queuing time.
Upon arrival, people may find it useful to use a new initiative in place this year, an interactive guide available through their smartphone, allowing them to self-guide around the venue with GPS.
It has a search function to allow visitors to find specific exhibitors from the 1,700 trade stands there, covering agri-business to house and home and health and wellness and more, and also a ‘find my car’ feature for when visitors are leaving.
This year, there will be millions of euros worth of agricultural and plant machinery on display, and an opportunity to see some in action in the demonstration area.
Livestock will also be on show and people can learn about management, genetics, nutrition, and healthcare.
Across 200 acres, there will be 320 competitors taking part in the ploughing championships.
The competition results are officially announced each day on the bandstand at 6pm.
The Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena in association with the National Ploughing Association returns again this year, showcasing pioneering innovations to the marketplace.
Other events returning this year that are sure to draw the attention of many are the National Brown Bread Baking Competition, and the Certified Irish Angus Schools' Competition finalists announcement and calf presentation.
On Wednesday, Macra will set its sights on the goal of breaking the Guinness World Record for most people simultaneously throwing wellies and is looking for 800 people to help them achieve the feat.
