David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 87: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers markets in operation in the country; the action or supports her Department has taken or made available, or intends to take or make available, to encourage the development of farmers markets; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14233/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The farmers markets concept has experienced significant growth in recent years with more than 80 separate markets operating under various arrangements in 22 locations throughout the country. My Department recognises the potential of farmers markets and actively supports efforts to promote the concept on a sustainable basis.

Bord Bia, which operates under the aegis of my Department, has launched a number of initiatives in this area. In co-operation with Invest Northern Ireland, the board recently launched A Guide to Farmers Markets in Ireland. The guide identifies the benefits of farmers markets for producers, consumers and local economies, lists the location of markets and trading days and offers clear advice on what makes for a successful farmers market. Bord Bia also provides general advice and information to people who have an active interest in setting up farmers markets. Further scope for developing farmer markets has been identified in the speciality-artisan food sector and Bord Bia is working with small food producers to develop this route to market.

The Food at Farmleigh model has been a resounding success and I was very pleased to see that Bord Bia hosted a food market in Farmleigh on Mayday with the participation of 28 of Ireland's finest speciality and artisan producers who offered a range of farmhouse cheeses, smoked salmon-eel-mackerel, preserves, cakes and biscuits, confectionery and charcuterie.

My Department has raised with Office of Public Works, OPW, the possibility of extending the successful Food at Farmleigh model style markets to other appropriate OPW sites. Bord Bia and OPW officials have begun discussion on how best to advance this.