Simon Coveney announced 65 new jobs in Cork and Kerry food businesses this morning.
The Minister for Agriculture made the announcement following the Cork and Kerry Food Forum, which took place in Cork City Hall this weekend.
The jobs are being created in the Food Academy, a collaboration between Bord Bia, Supervalu, and the Local Enterprise Offices. The programme sees local foot producers listed in Supervalu stores.
Minister Coveney said the programme helps bring "innovative ideas to market", and said the 65 jobs would be created this year. "
“Confidence and self- belief as innovators in the food and drinks sector are critical success factors for start-up enterprises," Minister Coveney said at the announcement. "A collaborative approach is the key to building success."
"More than 30 small food businesses from Cork and Kerry who are part of the Food Academy will generate sales worth €1.2 million this year, leading to the creation of 65 jobs," said Martin Kelleher, SuperValu Managing Director.
"It is great to nurture the energy and passion of these entrepreneurial producers and harness this into producing a range of products that we are proud to stock on our shelves."