Funding boost for Athlone and Moate shows in 2026
Athlone and Moate Agricultural Shows each received €9,200 in funding from a €1 million national allocation announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary.
Grants awarded range from €4,200 to €11,400 depending on their size and 126 shows nationwide benefit.
As well as the funding for Moate and Athlone shows, the Mullingar Show received €10,000; and the Midlands Connemara Show was allocated €8,400.
Minister Calleary made the announcement on Sunday as the Irish Shows Association (ISA) launched their 2026 Yearbook at an event in Athlone.
He said: “I am delighted, as Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, to be supporting these agricultural shows, which are a great platform to showcase our Irish agriculture sector.
“Last year, I had the privilege of visiting a number of shows across the country and I got to see first-hand the enormous benefits that each show brings to a community.
“They also provide an opportunity for friendly competition, and I am always struck by the quality of the livestock and produce on show.
“Our agricultural shows are also a great social events, where lifelong friendships have been made and fostered.
“Today I am announcing funding of more than €1m, which will support 126 agricultural shows across the country during the 2026 show season. The funding takes the total my department has provided under the fund to more than €6.3m since 2017.”
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht will work with the Irish Shows Association to administer the 2026 fund.
The minister concluded: “There is a huge amount of work and planning required in the weeks and months leading up to these shows, and it does not happen by chance.
“I want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of the ISA management and regional teams, the show committees, stewards, volunteers, and sponsors. Without your support, the 200-year tradition of hosting these shows would not be possible.
“I would encourage everyone to go along and support their local shows. These events are special and attendees will see the agricultural show has something to offer everyone.”