Gildernew makes festive visit to turkey farm

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has visited Barn Free Poultry, a farm diversification business outside Randalstown.

Barn Free Poultry Farm, which is owned by John and Thomas Galloway, received funding in 2006 under the previous Rural Development Programme (2001-2006) from DARD to establish a processing unit in converted farm buildings. The Galloways now produce 3,500 turkeys annually for Christmas and provide a turkey processing service for neighbouring farmers. The turkey production compliments their suckler cow and beef cattle business and has now been expanded to include geese and ducks.

During a tour of the farm the Minister said: “Christmas is a very special time of year with Christmas lunch being one the seasonal highlights for many families. It is encouraging to see family farms like this not only producing the birds but also adding value and meeting local market needs. DARD’s role in helping rural businesses like this is at the core of keeping local fare at the centre of dinner tables, especially at seasonal times of the year.

“Diversification projects of this nature enhance both the viability of the family farm and provide fresh, local produce to consumers. I am particularly impressed by the quality birds which are traditionally reared and produced here at Barn Free Poultry.”

The Minister added: ”John and Thomas’s poultry business is a great success story for diversification in the north of Ireland, and stands as an example to anyone considering enhancing their farm business through diversification. I wish the Galloways every success in the future.”

Further information on the Rural Development Programme and the assistance available can be found at the Rural Development Programme website  or by calling 0845 3044 509 to request an information pack. The Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 is part financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Notes to editors:

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