7 June, 2008
Trevor Sargent T.D. Minister for Food and Horticulture officially opened a new allotment initiative at Rathbeggan Lakes, Dunshaughlin on Saturday 7th June.
The allotments have been in operation since March and already the take-up has been a tremendous success, according to Dave Robinson of Rathbeggan Lakes. “There is now a greater awareness of food and where it comes from, which has been highlighted by the growing popularity of farmers’ markets,” he says.
Trevor Sargent agreed saying.
“As we become more aware of the negative impact of climate change and the unsustainable levels of fossil fuel energy which currently is used to produce food, it becomes increasingly important that people are able to grow their own fruit and vegetables or buy in a local farmers’ market. Meath has seen a flourishing of local and artisan food talent in recent years available at many markets including Sonairte, Laytown, Co. Meath which I opened in March.”
The Dunshaughlin allotments measure 6m by 20m and are fenced with a traditional chestnut paling.Based on a one-year renewable licence, each plot comes fenced and ploughed with water laid on.
Staff at Rathbeggan can carry out rotovating, rubbish removal and a weeding service. Farmyard manure and bark mulch are also available free of charge while a full range of other garden products are available for sale in “The Potting Shed”.
Rathbeggan Family Park is also a popular picnic and activity park area with angling and archery.
A second phase of allotments is also planned.
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