Europe Supporting Ireland and Duhallow

By JOHN BRETT

Ireland joined the EC (European Communities) in January 1973, 50 years ago. There were two other countries included at the time of Irish accession: the United Kingdom and Denmark. A late trading block was formed which was an advantage to Ireland. The opening up of European markets and the single market has greatly helped to support Irish business. The Duhallow region has advantages including rich and diverse farmland which supplies many industries. There are very strong traditions in relation to dairy and food co-operatives in Duhallow. Local co-ops are in existence in Duhallow due to its rich farming history. 17% of Irish cheddar comes from Newmarket, this is exported all over the world. Ingredient Solutions, based in Boherbue is a producer for dairy products for the food industry. Their products are also exported to European countries and further afield. At one point in time, sugar was also supplied to from Mallow sugar factory to Cadbury’s plant in Rathmore by rail. Readily available local supplies of milk have also been needed by this factory, including milk from Boherbue Coop.

Other advantages of joining the EU includes funding to community groups which contributes enormously to the development of the Duhallow area. Funding provided to IRD Duhallow allows for the provision of further education opportunities to many people in the local community. Tourism also plays a part in the economy of the Duhallow region and the country as a whole. Both the River Blackwater and the River Lee are beautiful rivers which need environmental protection, this is the key to the existence of all forms of life. The gem of the Lee Valley is the Gearagh south of Macroom.

Today the Gearagh is protected by European legislation and designated a Ramsar site and biogenetic reserve. In 1993, the Eurovision Song contest took place in Millstreet, putting the town fully in the focus of the world with visitors from all over Europe in attendance. It is said that miles of telephone cable were necessary to host this ambitious production and put in place necessary communications.

A further memorable event was the world boxing event which saw Steve Collins defeat Chris Eubank in 1995, and several high profile European equestrian events have also been hosted. Today Millstreet still welcomes new communities, including people arriving from Ukraine. In European history it was envisaged that there would be no more wars after World War 2, the devastating war on European soil in Ukraine has proved that this was not to be.