McCormack calls for Screggan to host ploughing again in 2026

Hot on the heels of the return of the National Ploughing Championships to Tullamore in less than three weeks, time, local Fianna Fail TD, Tony McCormack has called for the event to be staged in the Offaly capital again in 2026!

At the official launch this week, Deputy McCormack said he was proud to welcome the championships to the county once more. He paid tribute to Anna May McHugh and her hardworking team for their organisation and expressed huge appreciation to Lisa Flaherty for providing the site.

“Offaly is a great farming county” Deputy McCormack said "from cattle and dairy to tillage and other less traditional enterprises, farming here is diverse and deeply rooted in our communities. That makes the county a natural setting for the ploughing, where every sector of agriculture is celebrated and showcased.”

He highlighted how Screggan’s central location makes it accessible for visitors from all over the country, and praised An Garda Síochána for ensuring smooth traffic management at the site in previous years.

The Offaly deputy also pointed to the many opportunities the event brings: stalls for local businesses, fundraising for voluntary groups and clubs, and a major economic boost for accommodation providers, shops, pubs, and restaurants across the county. Many families also rent out rooms or houses during the event, spreading the benefits even further.

“But beyond the economic value, the ploughing is about people,” he said "it’s a wonderful time to meet old friends, make new connections, and enjoy all that this great event has to offer.”

Calling for the championships to remain in Offaly into the future, McCormack pointed out that up to 250,000 people - more than three times the population of Offaly - are expected to attend this year's event. “With our farming heritage, our central location, and our proven ability to provide a successful site, I am calling for Screggan to host this great event again next year" he said.