Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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874. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to introduce incentives towards the development of farmers markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6021/20]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I am pleased that farmers’ markets, along with other outdoor shops, were allowed to re-open in Phase 1 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business from Monday 18th May, so long as measures can be put in place to ensure that the necessary social distancing is adhered to carefully.

I recognise that this has been a very challenging time for suppliers to farmers’ markets.  I am aware that Bord Bia have provided additional marketing supports and advice for small food producers, particularly in terms of converting to digital marketing and sales. Bord Bia hosted a very informative webinar for producers who sell at Farmers Markets, to explore other opportunities to reach their consumers, as well as ensuring they are best prepared to go back to market as they re-open. The webinar is available on the Bord Bia website at:

Small producers are encouraged to engage directly with Bord Bia as it continues to develop specific supports for small food businesses impacted by Covid19. They should also engage with their Local Enterprise Office.

In terms of supports for the markets themselves, funding may be available through the LEADER Programme, administered by the Department of Community and Rural Development, depending on the nature of the proposed activity to be funded.