Stormont Minister Michelle O’Neill was well
impressed when she visited the annual Londonderry and Limavady Agriculture Show
on Saturday.
After touring the livestock and a host of
other stands at the Aghanloo grounds, Minister O’Neill told the ‘Journal’ local
agricultural shows are an important event in the farming calendar and make an
important contribution to the local agri-food industry and the rural
communities in which they take place.
“They are a great showcase and a social
gathering for anyone with an interest in the rural way of life,” she said.
“Today’s visit to the Derry/Limavady Show marks the beginning of my visits to
local agriculture shows this summer and I am impressed by the large numbers of
enthusiastic people who have worked exceedingly hard to make this show
function. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my tour of the livestock classes and home
industries at today’s show. Today’s weather hasn’t been the most favourable,
but spirits don’t seem to have been dampened by it and it’s great to see so
many people come out to support the farmers’ efforts.”
Prior to the show, the Minister met with Sinn
Fein representatives where the issue of bringing offices belonging to
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) to the former Shackleton
Barracks was raised.
Sinn Fein Colr. Sean McGlinchey said his
party is working hard to bring the jobs to Ballykelly. Last month the ‘Journal’
revealed how the re-location is thought to be between Ballykelly and Strabane.
“It’s very disappointing to see how long
these processes take, although I understand there is a complicated process to
adhere to,” he said. “We discussed this with the Minister on Saturday, but
there is still no decision because talks are ongoing.”
He added: “I am still hopeful, however, the
decision will be in favour of Ballykelly.”
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