Fruits of the earth
Where could visitors to the biggest farming event in Europe buy the produce of Irish farms?
The big food manufacturers were there in force with large and impressive stands but there was no sign of the farmhouse cheese makers, the artisan producers, the home bakers, jam makers, etc.
Eamon Ó Cuív, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht affairs, has pledged his support for artisan food producers and recognises the importance of this sector in rural development; he also acknowledges the role of artisan producers in attracting positive publicity for hand-crafted foods and for preserving our traditional food culture.
Plans were hatched to create a food village that was to showcase the best of Irish food at this year’s Ploughing Championships. Isobel Fletcher, coordinator of the Leader small business food initiative, and her team organised the Leader food village. There were 28 food stands showcasing the produce of 50 artisan producers and farmers’ markets from 18 counties.
According to Isobel Fletcher, the contribution of small food producers to the rural economy is very significant. “In many cases, small food enterprises are helping to sustain family farms. By providing employment, they are resulting in growth and regeneration in rural communities. The small food industry keeps the euro local.”
The food village was a huge hit with the public and confounded those who were adamant people don’t come to the Ploughing Championships to buy food. On the opening day, stalls at the food village were practically sold out. Many had to send for extra supplies.
Ann Rudden, of Aine’s Chocolates in Oldcastle, Co Meath, was rushed off her feet. “I sold more on the opening day that I did over the entire three days of the ploughing last year,” she said. Aine started her chocolate business five years ago with support from Meath Leader.
Joyce and Paddy O’Keeffe of Tipperary Organic Ice Cream ran out of produce on the first day and had to send home to Clonmel for replenishments. Paddy and Joyce started their business in Clonmel in 2000, with help from the Tipperary Leader group.
Farmers’ market sellers from Midleton, Duhallow and Cobh were extraordinarily busy; Claire O’Keeffe of Duhallow said custom at the event was “like six months business in one day”.
I look forward to seeing the food village concept gathering momentum.
