A new extension to the advisory offices of Teagasc in Midleton was officially opened by Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton TD.
“The Teagasc advisory service offices in Knockgriffin, Midleton offer an invaluable service to farmers in this area of county Cork. The new extension will accommodate staff who moved from Teagasc offices in Farranlea and allow more space to expand services and staff into the future”, noted Deputy Stanton.
“The original office was opened 43 years ago as part of a network of 8 offices in Cork in the late 1970s. At this time, there were just four staff on site but nowadays 10 people work in the offices, these include advisors and a number of administrative and research officers. We were fortunate that, David White, one of the original staff members from 1974 was present at the opening.
“The office in Midleton serves a large part of south Cork with a service area extending from Youghal to Kinsale on the southern coast and inland from Ballinhassig to Knockraha and Glanmire. Given that this part of Cork is such a successful farming area it is not surprising that the office has more than 950 clients, half of which are dairy farmers and the remaining half split between tillage and drystock, “noted Minister Stanton.
“In addition to regular advice and assistance for farmers, the Midleton office also supports 9 distance learning students and farming discussion groups within the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s Knowledge Transfer Scheme. A number of seminars are organised each year also, all of which are very well attended.
“I was very pleased to open the new extension and have the opportunity to talk to local farmers, representatives from farming groups and, of course, Teagasc staff who provide such a great service to people in this area. I would also like to congratulate the Regional Manager, Ger McMahon on his many years of service to Teagasc and the local farming community and wish him well on his retirement.
