Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Edwin Poots has announced a £200,000 support package for agricultural shows in Northern Ireland (NI). This comes as the events are expected to commence within the coming months. With the announcement of the scheme, each show will be able to claim up to a maximum of £10,000 for new, or increased costs.
According to Minister Poots many businesses and sectors were adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with all shows cancelled in 2020 and only a few being able to take place in 2021. He says this resulted to events losing the opportunity to raise vital funds that would help prepare for the 2022 season. In reiterating the value of the gatherings, Poots says that agricultural shows play a vital role in showcasing excellent agri-food produce while additionally supporting rural communities while boosting the economy and tourism.
NI will be running a full schedule this year to promote and facilitate future economic growth for agri-food businesses. The season will kick off in mid-May with the calendar set to end in early December.
Shows will be contacted by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs over the next few weeks to provide assistance in the availing of the scheme. Minister Poots also announced plans for an independent review of local agricultural events, which will explore the potential for longer term support options and help events remain sustainable in the years ahead.