Mayo island gets funding boost for food festival

The Inishturk Community Club has been awarded a €16,800 grant for its Taste of Inishturk initiative under the Agri-Food Tourism Investment Scheme, in a move warmly welcomed by Mayo Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD.

The funding, announced this week, is part of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine’s ongoing commitment to enhancing rural development and promoting the integration of agriculture and tourism across Ireland.

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Describing the grant as “a fantastic boost for Inishturk,” Minister Dillon praised the island’s unique and authentic food tourism offering. “This is a well-deserved recognition of the incredible food and hospitality experience available on Inishturk,” he said. “I want to sincerely thank my colleague, Minister Martin Heydon, for his strong support of this application and for championing investment in rural and island communities.”

Minister Dillon also emphasized the growing importance of agri-food tourism in County Mayo, noting the region’s wealth of culinary talent and natural beauty. “Promoting and investing in agri-food tourism is a key priority for me,” he said. “We have a world-class product here in Mayo—from our producers and chefs to our breathtaking landscapes—and we must continue to support and showcase it.”

The Taste of Inishturk initiative aims to highlight the island’s food heritage, bringing visitors closer to its traditions, culture, and people through locally sourced cuisine and immersive experiences.

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The Agri-Food Tourism Investment Scheme is designed to foster stronger ties between agriculture and tourism, while enhancing visitor engagement with Ireland’s rural landscapes and food culture.