Calls made for permanent structure for Rossnowlagh Farmers’ Market

The future of Rossnowlagh Farmers’ Market was discussed at March’s Donegal Municipal District meeting, with a view to developing a permanent structure for the event. 

Rossnowlagh Farmers’ Market has been a fixture in the local community on a Friday morning, at Rossnowlagh’s Friary Hall, with consumers supporting local farmers and artisans’ produce on sale; however, upcoming renovations have meant that the market would have to relocate earlier than normal this year. 

A councillor spoke that he was "aware that the Rossnowlagh Farmers’ Market had to move out earlier than they would have. It was a big success, and they are bringing a lot of people there. They are still after a permanent or semi-permanent structure so they can go to when the weather is bad. It is a problem this year, and they have nowhere to go. 

“The Farmers’ Market has been a success and has been going for two years. There are thousands of people who come every Friday morning. Most of the produce is homegrown and is of good quality fruit and vegetables, and crafts. I think there should be something put in place for them.

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“I know there are planning issues, but we have to make sure there is something put there to enhance the area and help the farmers there. If there was something permanent, it could be used by other groups.”

Cllr Michael McMahon commented: “I would be supporting that. One of the ideas they had was a marquee. It is one of those marquees that is a strong marquee. If they got it set up, would they need planning? 

The market has been very successful and brought the community together. They bought the marquee last year, but it is still in the box. 

If we could have some answer as soon as it is possible, because if they drop the Farmers’ Market, people would go to other places, and then they would have to rehash it again.”

Community Development Officer for Donegal County Council, Caroline Britton, said: “I have been working with that farmers’ group, and I am aware they need something there that is weather-proof. I will bring back the comments and continue to look for solutions.