This article is from page 26 of the 2008-03-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 26 JPG
ENNIS’ popular farmer’s market has re-opened, with traders promoting sustainability and green living.
The market has resumed for its fifth year at its usual location in the Upper Market Street car park on Fridays from 8am to 2pm.
This year traders are advocat- ing the benefits of eating fresh, lo- cal produce and minimising one’s carbon footprint by buying locally produced food. According to baker Mary Gray, there are sound environ- mental reasons for supporting farm-
er’s markets.
She explained, “The fresher the food the better it is for us, no artifi- cial preservatives. The less the food travels the less transport is involved and therefore less environmental 1m- pact.
“The money spent goes in to the local economy. And the fewer steps between us and the producer means less chance of dilution of quality.”
The market has been up and run- ning since 2004 and consists of a eroup of dedicated food producers and traders with a wide range of lo- cal, artisan and organic foods includ-
ing meats, cheeses and local honey, to name but a few. Most of the pro- duce is sourced in Clare with some coming from nearby Tipperary.
Mary explained that, apart from the easy access to fresh produce, the interaction between consumer and producer is one of the main reasons why farmer’s markets have grown in popularity
“When I began selling at the En- nis farmer’s market, I was struck by the number of customers of the older generation who brought regularly,’ she said. “Farmer’s markets seemed to have a reputation for being a bit
alternative, so it was interesting to hear why these older customers were so loyal.
‘Two reasons stood out. First, peo- ple who grew up in an era before shopping was dominated by super- markets really enjoy talking to the producers and being able to ask ques- tions about the produce. Secondly and more importantly, people really like to buy food that tastes “like food used to taste’.”
The market begins at 8am, a deci- sion popular with many customers who prefer to do their shopping on their way to work.