"Fresh from the Farmers' Markets" is a brand new, RTÉ eight-part television supported by Bord Bia. Broadcast weekly on RTÉ One, the series commences on Wednesday April 25th, 2007 at 7.30pm.
The series will follow Clodagh McKenna, acclaimed cook, presenter, food writer and supporter of farmers' markets as she visits a different farmers market each week to meet and introduce the viewers to stall holders. Concentrating on an individual stall holder's / farm / place of work she will then interview them on their product offering. This will be followed by a cookery demonstration which will highlight the use of these products in culinary delights.
Bord Bia views farmers' markets as a vital and strategic route to market for small food producers and farmers. It is particularly important in relationship building and has the potential to allow a greater number of farmers to supply consumers directly with fresh local produce. Bord Bia's Periscope research shows a distinct importance in the Irish consumer psyche for fresh food and for local produce when food shopping - a trend which augers well for a farmers' market system which gives farmers and producers of fresh and local food direct access to Irish consumers.
Bord Bia has assisted the Irish farmers' market system since its infancy with support and advisory services on the establishment, running and promotion of markets to individuals, local communities and local authorities, a partnership with OPW in establishing and running markets at Farmleigh and other OPW sites and the integration of markets into Bord Bia's key events. The number of farmers' markets in Ireland now amounts to 115 nationwide.
This sponsorship agreement marks Bord Bia's continued support for farmers' markets and specifically aims to increase consumer footfall at markets for the benefit of farmers and producers. In addition international distribution of the series will benefit Ireland's image overseas and in particular the positioning of Ireland the Food Island.
Speaking at the event Angela Kennedy, Chairman, Bord Bia, commented "The farmers market system benefits small food producers and farmers providing unique direct access to consumers for their produce. The farmers market system also has strong potential to benefit a growing number of farmers who choose to sell direct to consumers and to retain profit within the farm gate"
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For further information contact:
Margaret Dorgan, Corporate Communications Manager, Bord Bia
Tel: 01 614 2245 / 087 263 2836