Achill fish farm in awards forum
The awards for rural business are an all-island competition for farmers and rural entrepreneurs who have a business that have commenced trading in the last five years, according to the Connaught Telegraph.
Michael Flanagan and Aishling Roche of Achill Island Turbot grow sustainable, farmed turbot using new technology in the form of a fully traceable, recirculation aquaculture system.
The couple's plan is to make their fish available all year round and delivered to the market within 24 hours of harvest. To date a total of nearly €2.7 million has been invested in setting up the business that now has existing capacity to produce 100 tonne per annum. About half of the funding has been provided from EU and Udaras na Gaeltachta grants. Winning the award would be a huge boost for the Achill enterprise. Now in their fifth year, the JFC Innovation Awards have been responsible for supporting and developing excellent business ideas from farmers and rural entrepreneurs. The winner will be announced at a function in Galway on Monday, April 11.
