Northern Ireland Fruit Growers’ Association (NIFGA) organised an outing for all fruit growers during the month of August. NIFGA members, Ulster Farmers’ Union fruit chairman David Johnston, and other UFU members, gathered in Co. Armagh before they began the venture to Co. Tipperary where they visited The Apple Farm near Cahir.
The Apple Farm is run by Con Trass, chairman of Irish Fruit Growers’ Association, and in addition to apples Con grows pears, plums, cherries and soft fruit, which are sold through various outlets including his own farm shop. The visit included a tour of the Apple Farm, Con discussed his apple production and answered any questions that those in attendance had. Lunch was provided by The Apple Farm in their barn which they revamped for social occasions, highlighting the diversity of the business which also has a caravan park on-site. The meal showcased the very best local produce and was complimented with The Apple Farm’s delicious juice and fruit.
In the afternoon, the group visited Bulmer’s factory in Clonmel, which also creates Magners, a popular cider distributed in the UK. The visit to Bulmers allowed our NI growers on the trip to discuss the opportunity for fruit from the 2019 harvest and they were able to strengthen the link which the apple industry has with this key client. This was a vital aspect of the day especially with the risk posed by Brexit and the likely importation of juice apples from Poland and other EU members.
