Allotment Event at Stormont

Carrickfergus Borough Council took part in an event at Stormont today (15th March 2011) to celebrate the booming demand for new allotments, community gardens and other green spaces. A leaflet 'Allotments in Northern Ireland' was also launched. The event was organised by the Federation of City Farms and Allotment Gardens and the Northern Ireland Allotment Forum. The event was hosted by Sammy Wilson, MP for East Antrim. The event had representatives from Council's and allotments and community gardening groups from all parts of Northern Ireland.

Stephen Daye, Carrickfergus Borough Council with Sammy Wilson, MP for East Antrim

Jermery Iles, FCFCG with Sammy Wilson MP and Austin Herron, Northern Ireland Allotment Forum

FCFCG Chief Executive Jeremy Iles said it was an exciting time for food growing and community gardening in Northern Ireland:

“We have been working alongside a range of environmental organisations, local authorities and land-based groups for several years to support this activity in Northern Ireland, but thanks to grant from Awards for All, we are now able to put our work on a firmer footing. This event will give us a further boost as it means we have the attention of policy makers in Northern Ireland.

“Ultimately we would like to see an increasing number of well-used, well-run and well equipped community gardens and allotment sites, giving the chance for local people to reap the benefits of growing their own.”