Gildernew promotes local food in Washington

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew has visited Washington to promote local food and establish American business contacts.

The Minister was in Washington earlier this week to attend a gala dinner, for influential food and travel trade as well as American political representatives, prepared by four local chefs.

She said: “This event was a great opportunity to showcase local food and talent. We have access to some of the best foods in the world, from land, lough and sea and it was clear that our guests were impressed with the standard of our cuisine.”

The event formed part of the Rediscover Northern Ireland programme, a series of over 40 arts and cultural events taking place throughout Washington DC which aim to raise US awareness of Northern Ireland’s thriving economy, revitalised cities, unique and fascinating culture and its people’s sense of pride and passion. The Rediscover Northern Ireland programme will challenge people’s perceptions of the region and will illustrate the calibre and vitality of the region as a place to visit, invest, study, work and live.

While in Washington, the Minister also took the opportunity to undertake a number of business meetings, including the US Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns.The Minister added: “These meetings have provided an excellent, early opportunity to set out our agriculture and rural development priorities and establish a broader relationship with the US. I am also keen to explore the potential for sharing best practice in areas of common interest."

Notes to Editors:

1. The four chefs were:

Sean Owens is Chef and Patron of Gardiners Restaurant, Magherafelt.

Nick Price, form Nick’s Warehouse in Belfast.

Noel McMeel, Head Chef for Castle Leslie, County Monaghan.

Liz Moore,Belle Isle School of Cookery, County Fermanagh.

2. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619.