Apiary has Tagoat buzzing

THE busy bees at the South Wexford Beekeepers Association opened their new training apiary in the grounds of Churchtown House Tagoat last weekend.

In opening the apiary, chairman Peter McQueen said that the setting up of the apiary was a major step forward for the association. With major losses of bees over the last year, he said, it was important that the association has an apiary which can assist local beekeepers in having a greater understanding of any problems which may arise.

He also acknowledged the generous support of Chris and Asling, owners of Churchtown House, who allowed the Apiary to be located on a secluded part of their property.

Apiary Manager Niall Keogh will be ensuring that it plays an important role in the ongoing training of beginners and experienced beekeepers alike. The location of the apiary will also further assist in the pollination of crops and flowers in the area.

The association, which was formed in 2003 now has a membership of over 100, recently completed its annual Preliminary Training Course with 24 participants.

It meets on the first Thursday of every month at 8 a.m. at Johnstown Castle (with the exception of July and August) for instructional lectures and Q&A sessions to assist local beekeepers.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the Association or beekeeping in general should contact the Secretary Derek Andrecucetti on 085 278 0890 or the Chairman Peter McQueen on 086 406 2308.

The attendance at the opening of the new training apiary in the grounds of Churchtown House in Tagoat.

Members of the South Wexford Beekeepers Assocation at the opening of the new apiary: Peter McQueen (chairman), Derek Andreicotti (secretary), Niall Keogh (manager), Bob Delaney and James Hogan.