Farmers markets have been developing in Ireland over the past five years at a phenomenal rate. At present there are over 84 such markets in the country and that number is increasing every month. This market in Ballinasloe will help forge links between local food producers and the public. Group spokesperson Martin Halliday says " this is an exciting development for Ballinasloe and its hinterland. We have been producing jams, preserves and free range eggs for a number of years. The new market will help us to increase our turnover and get our products direct to the consumer.

Mal Croffy, who is a keen supporter of the project said that Ballinasloe has a keen tradition of fairs and markets and that this will be an extension of that tradition.

Padraig Fahy local producer of organic vegetables sells his own veg as well as produce of other organic growers in the midlands and he imports items that he cannot get locally such as organic fruit, avocadoes and aubergines.

"Direct sales are the only option for small scale producers", says Padraig "it provides greater security, you can build up customer loyalty and you are not at the mercy of a supermarket buyer. You should also be providing better value than retail outlets for the customer as there is no middleman involved."

There is little doubt that the growth in local farmers markets is hugely beneficial to small food producers as they can experiment and test market potential without the crippling overheads associated with maintaining a premises. There are also benefits to the wider community: Studies have shown that for every €20 spent locally €14 will remain in the local economy, thus helping to keep people employed in their local area.

The Ballinasloe Farmers Market will open for business on Thursday August 18th and Friday 19th August 2005 at 12 noon in Croffys centre, Main St. Ballinasloe. For more information please contact PRO Martin Halliday : 087 2563167