The opening of a new state-of-the-art seed processing and distribution hub in Belview in Waterford represents a significant financial investment in the future of the Irish agricultural industry. This new 52,000sq ft facility was opened last week by cereal and forage seed companies Seedtech and DLF.

The facility is unique in Ireland and has the ability to process high-quality cereal and grass seed, as well as premium grains for the food industry.

It is designed for a quick turnaround between uses to maximise its efficiency and has state-of-the-art seed-dressing facilities installed as well as a 10t/hour optical colour sorter which can assess each seed individually and discard if appropriate.

Speaking at the opening, Nigel Whyte, Seedtech commercial director, said: “Today’s opening of this new facility signifies our commitment to the seed sector in Ireland.”

He went on to say that the plant complements the existing technological resource the company has in its people, cereal trials research and seed production technology.

DLF general manager Paul Flanagan said that the opening of this new facility is a significant enhancement to what is already a sizable operation for DLF in Ireland. He said the plant will help to ensure that the company has the best grass seed portfolio in the years ahead.

The facility is now fully operational and will service both Seedtech and DLF customers for the 2017 harvest.