Growth prospects for the artisan food sector are positive overall, driven by increased consumer interest in the provenance of food, environmental concerns, health and a desire to support the local economy.
There is provision in the Rural Development Programme (RDP), for funding to support new and existing artisan, micro and small food producers to address emerging challenges through investment in areas such as market development, competitiveness and innovation. This funding will be delivered using the LEADER methodology. I hope to announce further details of this in the near future with my colleague Minister Ring.