Import Procedures

PRESS RELEASE

Organic Food - an option for the consumer and the farmer

Organic produce is in demand not just in Ireland but all over Europe. Despite the economic downturn recent Bord Bia figures shows that the organic market in Ireland continues to grow. Opportunities exist for Irish farmers to avail of these attractive markets.

To mark National Organic Week (September 14-20) Teagasc in conjunction with the Western Organic Network are holding a series of organic farming seminars.

Western Organic Network representative John Brennan said “The aim of these evenings is to showcase all that is best in local organic produce. The events will be aimed at both consumers interested in sourcing local organic produce and farmers whom are interested in converting to organic production”.

Two meetings will be held, one on Tuesday 15 September at the Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone and one at the Shannon Key West Hotel, Rooskey on Wednesday 16 September. Both meetings start at 7.30pm.

Dan Clavin, Teagasc Organic Specialist, Athenry said “Organic farming should be the number one option in the mind of farmers in these difficult economic times. With a new organic farming scheme shortly to be announced and premium prices available there is potential to generate a decent level of profit. There is a growing interest in organic farming with applications to the Organic Farming Scheme up 75% in 2009”.

Local established organic farmer speakers and experts from both Teagasc, Western Organic Network and the Organic Certification Bodies will be on hand to offer advice on all the relevant issues. Admission is free and all farm family members and members of the public are welcome.

Organic week events conclude with a Teagasc/Dept. of Agriculture National Organic Demonstration Farm walk at Padraig Fahy and Una Ni Bhroin’s horticulture unit and farm shop at Beechlawn, Ballinasloe. Padraig and Una started farming in 2001 and now operate a successful vegetable box scheme...