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Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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ISA advises member shows not to run in 2021

The Irish Shows Association has advised its members to cancel agricultural shows for a second consecutive year.

The representative body for agricultural shows issued a statement on the matter on Friday, March 26th, in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The body said it has “held off for as long as possible in making a statement this year”.

“We were hoping to get some clarity from the government on the inclusion of events in the national framework for living with Covid-19.”

The spokesperson stressed that clarification and advice have not been forthcoming due to the ever-changing nature of the situation.

“After consultation with our members, the board of the ISA has no choice at this time but to advise our member shows not to run in 2021, until such time as the appropriate authorities deem that it is safe to do so.”

“Our primary function is to support our member shows and to advocate on their behalf. We are not empowered to make a decision to cancel all shows or otherwise.”

Agricultural shows 2021 – Covid-19 restrictions

The Republic of Ireland is currently under level 5 restrictions. Even at level 1 in the current framework, the maximum number of people for an outdoor gathering would be 200-500.

“This would not be viable for most of our member shows. The regulations are different in Northern Ireland, but the dates for re-opening are still somewhat unclear.”

“We will continue to liaise with the relevant authorities on both sides of the border and advise our member shows accordingly.”

At all times, the ISA said it has continued to provide insurance to its member shows through its group scheme and will continue to do so through 2021.

“We are grateful to the Department of Agriculture for its continuing financial support to offset the cost of insurance.”

“We will be bound by the expert public health advice and the prevailing regulations. The ISA will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to obtain clear guidance on when and how shows can return.”

“Like so many other event organisers and community groups, we find ourselves in limbo waiting for a clear roadmap to emerge.”

“As show organisers need a reasonable amount of time to plan and organise their events, we are stepping in to provide advice based on the information that is available at the moment. This advice may be updated as regulations change.”

“It is going to be a long and winding road to get shows back on our calendar, but that is certainly our aim, and we will work tirelessly to that end. We hope that the relevant departments will work with us to allow for a safe resumption of shows.”

€600,000 ringfenced

The ISA said it is “extremely grateful” to the Department of Rural and Community Development for the funding it has given shows over the past years.

The €600,000 awarded in 2020 is still ringfenced for 2021 shows if they are able to run.

“We hope that this valuable financial support will continue. There is no doubt that shows will need financial assistance to get up and running again.”

“If the guidelines allow, we would love to see our members running something within their communities to keep the name of their show alive and to thank their loyal sponsors and volunteers.”

“We would encourage everyone to support the local businesses who have supported our member shows over the years.”

“For the shows that are unable to run this year, our advice is to keep in touch and plan for next year. We extend our good wishes to our members, friends and supporters. Stay safe, everyone. We look forward to seeing you all again on the other side of this crisis.” the spokesperson concluded.

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