Minister for Agriculture Brendan Smith has welcomed the improved outlook to farm incomes for 2010.
Speaking at the officially opening of the Tullamore Show in Co Offaly today Mr Smith said after a “very difficult few years things are looking a great deal brighter for agriculture this year”.
Referring to Teagasc estimates, showing the value of farm output will increase by over €300m compared to last year, Mr Smith said the figures were very positive for the whole rural economy.
Dubbed the “Olympics” of agriculture by Taoiseach Brian Cowen, the Tullamore Show and AIB National Livestock Show is expected to attract over 50,000 visitors today.
With showgrounds spanning 250 acres, the annual event allows the agricultural sector to showcase its finest offerings.
The Taoiseach is expected to attend the show later today.