Minister opens new DARD Direct Office in Newry

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA officially opened the newly refurbished DARD Direct office at Glenree House, Newry.

Glenree House is the latest addition to the DARD Direct network of one-stop-shops for DARD’s customers. DARD Direct offers farmers the opportunity to access the Department’s farm business services in one place and provides a choice of how business is conducted.

Speaking during her visit to Glenree House, the Minister said: “The delivery of the DARD Direct project in Glenree has involved a lot of hard work for staff, especially those on the front line delivering our services. Through DARD Direct we are focusing on how best to meet the needs of our customers in an ever changing and challenging business environment.”

The Minister added: “DARD Direct offers customers greater choice in how they do business with us. From calling in person or by telephone, through to postal or electronic delivery by email and on-line services, all options are provided for. I am confident that DARD Direct is delivering, and will continue to deliver, real benefits for farmers and rural dwellers across the north.”

Last year the Minister announced a network of 12 DARD Direct Offices across the north. The refurbishment of offices in Enniskillen, Coleraine and Dungannon has already been completed and the refurbishment of Glenree House means there are now four fully functioning DARD Direct offices. It is planned to complete four further offices over the next year.

The Glenree site was selected as the best option for the DARD Direct office in Newry. Renovation work started in November 2009 and was completed on schedule in April of this year.

Notes to editors:

1. DARD Direct Newry is located at the newly refurbished offices at –

2. Glenree House was originally opened in 1997 as the Divisional Veterinary Office for the Newry area.

3. The DARD Strategic Plan (2006-2011) highlighted that delivering services effectively to customers was one of the Department’s strategic goals over these five years.

4. All media queries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.