North Antrim MLA slams DAERA Minister for slashed funding to local agricultural shows

Colin Crawford MLA has voiced profound disappointment at the significant reduction in financial support from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) for two of North Antrim’s most cherished agricultural events, the Ballymoney Show and the Ballymena Show.

The sharp decline in funding, revealed in response to a question tabled in the Assembly by Mr. Crawford, has sparked concerns about the future of these vital showcases for County Antrim’s rural community.

According to figures provided by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, funding for the Ballymoney Show has plummeted from £12,935 in 2022 to a mere £90 in 2024. Similarly, support for the Ballymena Show has dwindled from £2,213 to just £127.50 over the same period.

The dramatic cuts have been met with dismay by Mr. Crawford, who represents North Antrim in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

“These shows mean so much to our rural and agricultural communities,” Mr. Crawford said in a statement.

“They are not only platforms for showcasing our exceptional local produce and livestock but also vital events that foster community spirit and celebrate rural life.

“The Department’s near-total withdrawal of support for the dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts into organising these events is nothing short of disgraceful.”

The Ballymoney and Ballymena Shows are longstanding fixtures in North Antrim’s cultural and agricultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors each year. A highlight in rural and farming calendars, the events provide opportunities for farmers to exhibit livestock, for local producers to promote their goods, and for families to engage with the region’s rich farming heritage.

However, the drastic reduction in DAERA funding has raised fears that the events may struggle to maintain their scale and impact.

“To see support slashed from thousands of pounds to a paltry £90 and £127.50 respectively demonstrates a clear disregard for the importance of these shows to North Antrim,” Mr. Crawford continued.

“The Minister must urgently reconsider this approach and provide meaningful assistance to ensure these events can continue to thrive.”

In the absence of adequate backing from DAERA, Mr. Crawford has called on the public to show their support by attending the upcoming shows.

“I urge everyone across North Antrim and beyond to rally behind these fantastic events,” he said. “By turning out in force, we can show our appreciation for the tireless volunteers and the rural community that makes North Antrim so special.”

The Ballymena Show is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 31 May, at Ballymena Livestock Market, while the Ballymoney Show will be held the following weekend on Friday, 6 June, and Saturday, 7 June, at Ballymoney Showgrounds.

Both events are expected to feature a range of attractions, including livestock competitions, trade stands, and family-friendly activities.

The funding cuts come at a time when rural communities across Northern Ireland are grappling with rising costs and economic pressures. Agricultural shows, which rely heavily on volunteer efforts and external support, play a critical role in sustaining the vitality of these areas.

Critics argue that DAERA’s reduced investment risks undermining the social and economic benefits these events bring to the region.

The issue is likely to fuel broader discussions about the Department’s priorities and its commitment to supporting rural communities in Northern Ireland.

For now, the message is clear: these important events need the public’s support more than ever to continue shining a spotlight on County Antrim’s agricultural heritage.

Published: 21 April 2025