The highly successful FTMTA Farm Machinery Show 2011 drew to a close on Saturday evening, February 12th and reaffirmed the status of the biennial FTMTA Farm Machinery Show as the premier farm machinery event in Ireland. A record attendance of approximately 17,500 visited the show over the three days which was an increase of some 2,500 on the 2009 Show. The overall tone was one of renewed confidence in the agricultural sector and in the machinery trade. All visitors to the Show commented on the positive mood which was picked up on in several national media reports on the event. The level of interest from non farming media was an interesting indicator of the new focus on the role of agriculture and associated sectors in the economic recovery of the country.
There was a very positive reaction by visitors and exhibitors to the new layout of three pavilions which includes the new trackside unit for the first time. It was felt that the new pavilion facilitated a more circular and even flow of traffic through the event and also that the new pavilion is a fine addition to the Show. There were also positive comments in relation to the loading / unloading facilities, security, car parking, cleaning and catering. The Association is keen to thank all the members of our own team, contractors, suppliers and Punchestown staff as well as the exhibitors and visitors who all contributed to the success of the event.
The Association was pleased to welcome a number of new exhibitors to this year’s Show alongside many regular participants and hopes that they all had a successful Show which will set the tone for a successful year for the farm machinery trade.
The Association carried out a survey of exhibitors on the closing day of the Show and will consider any suggestions coming through from that survey in due course.
The official opening of the Show was carried out on the first day by the new President of the Association, Mr. Garry Daly of Farmec (Ireland) Ltd. The opening ceremony included the presentation of the FTMTA Gold Award for 2011 to Gerry Dagg who has recently retired after 45 years of service to JF Farm machines (RI) Ltd including more than thirty years as Managing Director of the company. Gerry served many years on the FTMTA Executive Council and was elected President of the Association in 1980 and held the position for 2 years during a very difficult time for the machinery industry. The Association wishes Gerry all the best in his retirement.
The Association looks forward to FTMTA Grass and Muck 2012 with renewed optimism.
Road Safety Authority Recommendations
It now seems likely that the report by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) in relation to the use of agricultural vehicles on the road and the related recommendations will not be published until after the general election and following the creation of a new government. The report will be available on both the Department of Transport and the RSA websites when released. The Association will keep members updated on this issue.
FTMTA Website
The relaunched Association website ftmta.ie was on show at the FTMTA Farm Machinery Show and attracted a good degree of interest both from dealers and machinery buyers. Those members who have used the site so far report that is easy to use and a worthwhile exercise.
Be a part of a stronger farm machinery industry – join the Farm Tractor and Machinery Trade Association – contact FTMTA at 045 409309 or membership@ftmta.ie for details.
