Mary Harney, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise today (Sunday 21st January 2001) welcomed an estimated 12,000 buyers from over 36 countries to the 25th National Craft Gift and Fashion Fair ‘Showcase Ireland 2001’ in the RDS.

Speaking at the official opening the Tánaiste "This is the 25th Anniversary of Showcase Ireland, which has developed into one of the worlds leading international craft, gift and fashion trade shows. This is a notable achievement and demonstrates the extent to which the indigenous craft industry has developed and maintained growth over the years. I believe this growth is due the craft sectors continuing emphasis on quality and product development".

"The Irish crafts sector has enjoyed considerable success in recent years. Given the small scale of our domestic market, the future for the Irish craft industry lies in export led sales and growth. Current favourable exchange rates present an ideal opportunity for craft workers to penetrate new markets. Also the increase in demand in Ireland because of our expanding tourist industry is enabling even the smallest craft companies to expand into overseas markets", the Tánaiste added.

The Tánaiste highlighted the importance of a healthy and growing craft industry and said "one its greatest beneficiaries are the rural communities in which they operate. The Crafts Council of Ireland’s register indicates that 51% of its members are based in rural areas of the country and a further 24% in semi-urban / rural towns. Craft work, while demanding, can also be very flexible as the craft worker can and, in many cases, does work from his/ her own home. Such home industry can be very important for the local economy and add to the quality of life in many small towns and villages around the country. I am aware that all parts of Ireland - North, South, East and West, are represented at this Fair".

The Tánaiste pointed out that the Craft Fair, which kicks off the year’s activities in the craft circuit, has been very successful in recent years particularly last year when this event generated £36 million in sales, an increase of 11% over 1999. She added that "although this is a major date on the craft calendar, we must bear in mind that Irish Crafts are now on continuous display all over the world at craft fairs such as this one here today".

In conclusion the Tánaiste congratulated the Craft Council of Ireland, Showcase Ireland Events Ltd and Enterprise Ireland for their continued commitment to this prestigious event. She wished success to all the exhibitors and congratulated them on the quality and originality of the products on view.