Page 66 - Simply Vegetables Spring 2022

Irish Section
RAYMOND HIGGINS
Last spring, it was difficult to believe that two years in a row, Ireland’s Shows would fall victim to the global pandemic. The pandemic is not over but we are excited to see a return of our shows
and we are very much looking forward to the opportunity to meet up with friends again for the cup of tea, chat and opportunity to showcase quality vegetables.
The Irish Shows Association (ISA) is the official recognised body representing Irish Agricultural Shows on the island of Ireland. The ISA organise and oversee the annual All Ireland Championships for Vegetables. Qualifying rounds will take place at shows designated by the Irish Shows Association. The ISA publish a Yearbook each year which contains details of all championships and affiliated shows. This is available for purchase on the ISA website for €10 + postage.
The Bord Bia All Ireland Quality Potato Championships finals are held annually
at the Tullamore Show. The competition is designed to increase the level of awareness among growers of what constitutes a
good quality potato. This competition is
celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022. It’s become the highlight of the growing and showing season within Ireland. The perpetual Bord Bia Cup has the names of many of Ireland’s great growers engraved onto its base and the first prize of €250.00 along with bragging rights of growing
the best Potatoes in Ireland make this competition special. Tullamore Show will be held on August 14th.
NVS Judges Exam – October 1st
NVS Ireland, are delighted to have a number of members come forward to sit
the judge’s exam in 2022. This will be the first time the NVS exam will be held in Ireland. The exam is scheduled for Saturday October 1st and will include a theory written paper and practical judging exam. Its not too late to enrol to sit the exam. Candidates must have a good knowledge of the NVS judges guide and what it contains, along with experience of exhibiting/judging at shows.
As part of the practical exam, we will need to stage a mini show and we will require a good supply of quality vegetables for the candidates to judge. We are therefore asking our Irish members to support us by growing and providing some vegetables for the exam in October.
To register your interest in sitting the exam or to offer your help with providing vegetables for the practical exam please contact Raymond Higgins 0864591655 email higgins.raymond@gmail.com
66 Simply Vegetables