The aim of GIY Duhallow is to take the “self” out of “self-sufficiency” by getting amateur growers together
The Duhallow GIY group aims to inspire people from all walks of life and of all ages to grow their own food and provide them with the practical skills they need to do so successfully. The aim is to take the “self” out of “self-sufficiency” by getting amateur growers together so that they can learn skills from each other and connect with like-minded individuals.
At Duhallow GIY we believe that growing your own food is a lifestyle choice that not only makes sound economic sense, but is also good for physical and mental health, and makes you feel more connected with your community and environment.
Our mission is to encourage people from all walks of life and of all ages to grow their own food in their home, allotment or community garden and to provide them with the practical skills they need to do so successfully.
With our economy in a perilous state and increasing concerns about the quality of our food system, there is unprecedented interest in producing food in back gardens, allotments and community gardens. As individuals and as a society we have lost the necessary knowledge and skills that a generation ago were taken for granted. However through group activities including monthly meetings, talks and demos; garden visits, seed and seedling swaps; produce bartering, mentor panels and grower’s meitheals this knowledge can be shared and put into practice. Meetings and membership are free of charge, and open to all – beginners and experts, young and old.
GIY Ireland was founded by author and journalist Michael Kelly. Patrons of the organisation include Diarmuid Gavin, Darina Allen, Clodagh McKenna and Joy Larkcom and the organisation is proudly supported by Woodies DIY, AIB, Bord Bia and Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.
Objectives of GIY
1. To build vibrant, active, local communities of food growers by establishing sustainable GIY groups in every town in Ireland
2. To take the ‘self’ out of ‘self-sufficiency’ for amateur food growers
3. To inspire Irish people to produce their own food
4. To provide home growers with the information and knowledge they need to grow successfully – what to grow, when and how to grow it
5. To inform people about the physical, mental and emotional health benefits of home-grown produce
6. To bring GIYers together to get to know each other, have fun and learn from one another
7. To be socially inclusive and accessible to all who are interested in producing their own food regardless of age, financial means, gender or ethnicity
Who should join a GIY Group?
- Want to be part of something incredible
- Want to produce their own food but are not sure where to start
- Are already growing their own food but want to learn more, get better results from their growing, get in touch with fellow GIYers, or share the knowledge they gained the hard way
- Have excess produce and want to barter/exchange with other growers
- Are concerned about food security, rising food costs and the impact of our food system on the planet – and who want to empower themselves by growing their own food
What are the benefits of joining a GIY Group?
- Better results from your growing
- Increased expertise and knowledge
Physical and mental wellness can be enhanced through the positive impact of
- physical activity associated with vegetable growing
- social interaction associated with GIY groups and meetings
- Having access to a plentiful supply of home grown produce encourages a healthier, more balanced diet
- Save money on your grocery bill!
IRD Duhallow GIY Group meets the last Tuesday night of each month at 7.30pm in the James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket for further information please contact Katie Crowley 029 60633
