Galway’s Agricultural Shows get funding boost
AGRICULTURAL shows in Athenry, Ballinasloe, Claregalway, Corrandulla, Glenamaddy, Monivea and Mountbellew are to receive a funding boost. Minister for Rural and Community Development Dara Calleary announced on Monday that more than €1million would be invested in 123 agricultural shows nationwide, €139,720 of which is to go to 19 shows in County Galway. Minister Calleary made the announcement as he launched the 2025 Yearbook for the Irish Shows Association (ISA).
The Athenry Agricultural Show on May 25 is the first show under the ISA umbrella taking place in County Galway this year.
The organising committee for the Athenry show will be supplied with €8,350 in funding, the same total allocated to the committees in charge of the Corrandulla Agricultural Show (June 22), the Mountbellew Agricultural Show (August 23), the Monivea Show (September 14), and the Ballinasloe Horse and Agricultural Show (September 27 and 28).
The Claregalway Agricultural Show is down for Sunday June 8, and is to be provided with €6,700 in funding. The Glenamaddy District Ploughing and Agricultural Show on Sunday September 28 is to receive €9,205, the second-highest investment in Co Galway after the annual Connemara Pony Show in Clifden.
“These shows are a vital part of our rural identity, providing a platform for farmers, breeders, and local businesses while fostering community spirit,” said Galway East TD Sean Canney regarding the funding announcement.
“This funding will ensure these events continue to thrive, benefiting not only the agricultural sector but also tourism and local enterprises.
“Agricultural shows are not just exhibitions of livestock and produce – they are gatherings that celebrate the best of rural Ireland. The support announced today is a recognition of the work put in by organisers and volunteers to make these events a success.”
The first agricultural show on this year’s ISA calendar is in Newmarket-on-Fergus in Clare on Sunday May 4.