Show grants can be used in 2021
FUNDING that had been allocated to support the running of agricultural shows in 2020 can be used next year.
Many of this year’s shows, including those in Tinahely and Tullow, have been cancelled due to the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak.
However, Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring TD said that the funding for the shows can be carried forward to 2021.
‘Late last year, I allocated €600,000 to the Irish Shows Association to support approximately 120 agricultural shows around the country that were due to take place during 2020,’ he said.
‘As a result of the COVID-19 emergency, the Irish Shows Association has recommended the cancellation of all shows until restrictions are lifted and public safety can be ensured.
‘Due to the extraordinary circumstances that we are experiencing at this time, in cases where an affiliated show is cancelled this year, I have asked the Irish Shows Association to hold the funding allocated for that show in trust, so that it can be used in 2021 if the show goes ahead.
‘Any agricultural shows that can safely take place later in 2020 as restrictions are lifted, and in line with public health advice, can continue to utilise the funding available to them in 2020.’
In October, a grant of €5,000 to help with the costs of running an agricultural show was announced by the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Agricultural shows in Carnew, Tinahely and Kilmacanogue were among the 120 nationwide which received funding.