GLAS Special: A word from the Minister of State, Andrew Doyle
The Minister of State, Andrew Doyle will be in attendance at GLAS 2017 today, July 20th
Print20 July 2017
With increasing year-on-year exhibitor and visitor numbers GLAS has firmly established itself as one of the main events in the Irish amenity sectors calendar. I believe the continued strong demand for exhibitor space represents a clear recognition of the value of participating in the show and I would like to compliment all those involved in planning and organising this year’s event.
During the recession the amenity sector suffered more than any other within Ireland’s horticulture industry. The challenges posed by that period proved fatal for many within the sector; however most of those that managed to weather the storm are now enjoying a strong recovery in demand for their plants and services.
The improved sentiment within the sector is clearly visible in the applications received by the Department under the 2017 Scheme of Investment Aid for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector.
The value of the amenity sectors proposed capital investments for 2017 under that Scheme is almost double the value for 2016. With this in mind I was very glad to have secured the additional funding for the Scheme bringing its total budget for the current year to €5m.
Indeed this year, €1.1 million in grant aid has been allocated under the Scheme to applicants from the Nursery Stock and related Amenity Plant Sectors. This will facilitate capital investments to the value of almost €3m over the coming months by the businesses involved.
Of course there will be challenges for us all in the years ahead, particularly in the context of Brexit. But with challenges there will also be opportunities, and our success will lie in preparing for whatever the future holds. Every business must constantly seek to improve efficiency, reduce costs and maximise quality and service.
GLAS provides your only one-day opportunity to meet all the key producers, buyers, suppliers and service providers to allow your business develop and successfully embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Let’s make the most of it!
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