A producers network in Co. Tipperary, which includes cheesemakers, fruit farmers and butchers, is among a group of agri-food tourism projects which have received a new funding boost.

The Tipperary Food Producers Network is one of 17 organisations which will benefit from a total €300,000 in funding which has been earmarked for the tourism projects. 

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, today (Monday, June 5) confirmed that the funding has been made available for the groups under the 2023 Rural Innovation and Development Fund through the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). 

Minister McConalogue said: “The connection between agriculture and rural tourism is real and tangible given that we are such a great food nation with a strong track hospitality record.

“It is great to be able to support these initiatives in the agri-food tourism sector and build on progress already made.

“There is a great interest from across the country this year which highlights the interest in agri-food tourism and its importance to communities.”

The amount of funding allocated to the various organisations ranged from €7,442 – awarded to Rock Farm Slane – to €25,000 which was awarded to four organisations.

According to Minister McConalogue these tourism projects in rural areas allows companies of all sizes to showcase their “people, landscape, history and culture” through agricultural produce and local cuisine.  

“In addition it provides opportunities for rural businesses, including farmers, producers and artisans, to develop their products and services, connect with the community and visitors and improve skills and best practice,” the minister added.

The projects which have secured new funding include:

  • Tipperary Food Producers Network – €25,000;
  • Monaghan Co Council – €25,000;
  • Bia Innovator Campus Galway – €25,000;
  • Wicklow Naturally Farm to Fork Trails – €24,479;
  • Achonry Farmers Market – €9,800;
  • Burren Eco Tourism Network – €25,000;
  • Cromane Seafest, Co Kerry – €20,000;
  • Drumshambo Community Council – €24,850;
  • The Gourmet Greenway, Mulranny – €9,901.50;
  • Wildacres Honey Tour – €14,385;
  • Tipperary Co Council – €21,094.50;
  • North Mayo Heritage Centre – €21,800;
  • Carlow Tourism CLG – €12,275;
  • Laois Co Council (Laois Taste) – €8,593;
  • Cavan County Council – €12,275;
  • Boyne Valley Food Heroes – €12,275;
  • Rock Farm Slane – €7,442.