Around the world in 80 days – We built a factory!
It is all about being in the right place at the right time. We realised a long time ago our fish handling facilities at Goatsbridge Trout Farm did not meet our new found demand for trout. We had spent a long time looking at the various possibilities to solve this issue and I am glad to say that project was completed on the 11th November 2010.
I was down in Clonakility on a lovely sunny day in early August when the big announcement was made that BIM were funding projects after a long battle with the EU. Unfortunately for 95% of the industry Salmon farmers and business in SAC regions were not eligible for this support.
Our application went in on 20th August and we started the project the following Monday. I have faced many challenges in my life to date: toilet training, first tooth, early school days, adolescence, first kiss, college exams, marriage, mother-in-laws, childbirth, parenting, and now old age! No challenge could compare to the mammoth task ahead.
We had 80 days to complete this building from the day the application went in but would not hear until well into the project if we were to get funding or not. It was a big risk but I knew the Gods were with us and we decided to take the risk.
Big thanks to all those who put their shoulder to the wheel. I have to give a special mention to the Foley Construction Brothers. They are a family of 5 men and I must say it was like 7 brides for 7 brothers as times. Actually some of them are looking for a bride and I would recommend them highly because nothing is a problem and they could turn their hand at anything.
The job is complete and we must fish on.
Nothing will stop us now!
