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COVENEY OPENS THE BANTRY AGRICULTURAL SHOW
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD, officially opened the 16
th annual Bantry Agricultural show today.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister commended the high standard of entry in all classes and praised the organizers for an excellent community event for the west Cork region. Minister Coveney said
“the scenic location on the shores of Bantry bay provides for a unique setting for today’s show. Competitors have come from County Cork and surrounding counties to win a coveted cup or prize in their chosen field of expertise and I am delighted to see such a high standard in all competitions”.The Minister added
“there is a long and proud tradition of excellence in food production from high quality milk and beef to specialist small food businesses in this area. The show here allows for these producers to interact with customers and promote their businesses. Farming and food production is an industry where we have real strength and real opportunities. The further growth and development of our key indigenous Agrifood sector will take place through the Governments Food Harvest 2020 strategy, working with industry and family farms throughout the country in an effort to increase exports from the sector by one third to €12bn per annum. I am determined to ensure effective, joined-up implementationof this report by bringing together all of the relevant arms of the state in pursuit of the one goal”.Minister Coveney thanked the organizers and the chairperson Joe Wisemen in particular for another great community event. In conclusion he wished all the visitors and entrants a successful day.
4 September, 2011
ENDS