Minister Killeen Welcomes Grant Aid Of EUR22k For Clare Horticulture Sector

Glenbrook Nursery Ltd in Raheen, Tuamgraney has been allocated over EUR15k to invest in its production of nursery crops while a grower of protected crops in Bellharbour has received EUR7k.

Minister of State Tony Killeen T.D. said the Grant Scheme for the Development of the Horticulture Sector continued to provide wonderful opportunities for Clare crop producers to make on-farm investments.

"Since 2000, there has been a year on year increase in the level of interest in the scheme, which reflects the high degree confidence among Clare’s producers in the future of the sector", explained Minister Killeen.

He added, "I would encourage shoppers to support local producers who are striving to meet the highest standards. By supporting them we are making an investment in our own community."

"I would also like to compliment the two local applicants who have been successful in the grant scheme announced by my colleague Mr Trevor Sargent T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, with special responsibility for Horticulture", concluded Minister Killeen.

The grant aid provided under the scheme covers all areas of the horticultural production sector, including mushrooms, protected crops, nursery crops, field vegetables, soft fruits/apples and bee-keeping.

Horticultural output in Ireland is now valued at over EUR300m and retail sales are an estimated EUR650m.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government and Communication Energy and Natural Resources with special responsibility for Environment and Energy, is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request

Mark DunphyDunphy Public Relationsmedia@dunphypr.comwww.dunphypr.com00353-868534900 (mobile)00353-656839692 (fax)