The 81^st Tinahely Agricultural show was opened today by the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Andrew Doyle TD. The show took place at Fairwood Park, Tinahely, Co Wicklow.

Opening the show Minister Doyle complimented the show organisers on a huge range of competitions and events taking place during the day. 

‘Agricultural shows such as the Tinahely Show play an important role in the social calendar of the farming community, but are also an excellent occasion for both rural and urban people to meet and see all that is good about the traditions and skills of farming and rural pursuits’ said Minister Doyle.

The Minister acknowledged the leading role that farm families and food businesses have in the Irish economy and highlighted that Irish exports have increased from just under €8 billion in 2010 to an estimated €10.8 billion in 2015.

 ‘The maintenance of a vibrant rural economy depends on excellence in farming and food production. There is a long tradition of healthy competition among farmers and food producers at agricultural shows such as Tinahely, which helps to improve standards and increase the quality of output from our vital Agri- food sector’ added Minister Doyle.

The Minister praised the organising committee and the many volunteers for another successful show and concluded by wishing the organising committee, the exhibitors, the sponsors, the many visitors and indeed everyone involved in the Tinahely Agricultural Show an enjoyable and successful event.

Date Released: 02 August 2016