The milestone was celebrated at a special event attended by Minister of State for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Niamh Smyth, alongside representatives from Enterprise Ireland, Monaghan County Council and local public representatives.

The development represents a significant milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy and marks a major investment in the region, reaffirming Silver Hill Duck’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable expansion.

Supported by grant assistance from Enterprise Ireland, the project reflects the strategic importance of Ireland’s food production sector and export growth.

The new facility, spanning approximately 5,500 square metres, will substantially increase production capacity. Output is expected to grow from approximately 80,000 ducks per week to 120,000 ducks per week, enabling the company to meet increasing demand across both domestic and international markets while maintaining the highest standards of quality, efficiency and food safety.

The project is also expected to deliver considerable economic benefits to the region, including job creation during the construction phase and the development of new long-term roles once operational. These opportunities will span production, engineering and support services, contributing to local employment and skills development.

Managing Director of Silver Hill Duck, Micheál Briody, said:

“The commencement of this new processing facility marks a major step forward for our business. This investment will significantly enhance our capacity and capabilities, supporting our continued growth in international markets while maintaining the premium quality for which Silver Hill Duck is known worldwide. Importantly, it also reflects our long-standing commitment to the local community and the region that has supported us for generations.”

Minister of State Niamh Smyth also welcomed the development, saying:

“Silver Hill Duck is one of Ireland’s great agri-food success stories and one of Monaghan’s great success stories. The commencement of this new state-of-the-art processing facility is a clear statement of ambition and a vote of confidence in rural Ireland. This investment in modern technology, sustainability and innovation will create and sustain jobs, enhance quality and strengthen Ireland’s reputation for premium food production. I congratulate the entire Silver Hill team, and acknowledge the important support of Enterprise Ireland, on reaching this significant milestone.”

Mark Christal, Executive Director at Enterprise Ireland, added:

“This investment in this new production facility will enable Silver Hill to increase productivity and boost its competitiveness, allowing the company to expand capacity and diversify into overseas markets. At Enterprise Ireland, we know that it is crucial for Irish companies to stay competitive in order to grow the business on both a national and global scale. Through Enterprise Ireland’s Capital Investment Scheme, enabled by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, we are delighted to support Silver Hill’s commitment to increased productivity and sustainable practices and look forward to continuing to support the ambitious growth plans for the business.”

The new processing plant will incorporate advanced technologies designed to optimise operations, improve efficiencies and support more sustainable practices across the business.

With deep roots in the local community of Emyvale, Silver Hill Duck emphasised that this investment represents not only a strengthening of its operational base, but also a long-term commitment to regional development and employment.

Construction of the facility is now underway, with completion expected by summer 2027.

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From 13th May, customers across Northern Ireland will be able to enjoy the hand-picked strawberries, marking a significant milestone for regional produce and sustainability.

In May 2024, Tim O’Malley began his journey setting up a glasshouse for growing strawberries. Since partnering with M&S, he has significantly scaled his operation, with an additional 20 growing tunnels now in place – allowing a total of 100,000 plants on site.

This growth, combined with new technology, allows Tim to grow from April through to November – extending far beyond the traditional May to September window.

“Our first M&S strawberries will be hand-picked in April and sent straight to stores,” said Tim. “There’s a huge amount of care behind every berry – all to make sure they’re fresh, full of flavour, and grown the right way. That focus on quality is something we and M&S are completely aligned on.”

At O’Malley Berry Co., sustainability is central to every stage of the growing process.

“Since strawberries have a naturally high water content, the quality of the water they are given makes a real difference.” Said Tim. “That is why we use rainwater which is harvested from the glasshouse roof.”

“We grow in coir, which is a natural growing material made from coconut husks. Coir is airy and holds moisture well, this helps to keep the roots healthy,” said Tim, “We grow in reusable troughs which is better for the environment and helps us keep moisture levels exactly where they need to be, which leads to stronger, healthier plants.”

Tim works to prioritise biological pest control to protect his crops.

“Using biological pest control means we can protect the plants in a natural way, reducing the need for chemical interventions and producing healthier, more sustainable crops.”

Modern technology also plays a key role in maintaining quality on site.

“We can track moisture levels from our phones and adjust our irrigation plan in real time – this allows us to care for the plants around the clock,” Tim said.

But despite the embrace of modern technology, traditional methods remain essential when it comes to picking and packing.

“When it comes to picking and packing, everything is done by hand. It’s better for the fruit, better for the environment, and ensures the highest quality.”

Tim’s commitment to sustainability also extends to packaging, where he champions the use of cardboard punnets.

“I’ve always used cardboard punnets.” he said. “It was something I was keen to maintain as part of this partnership. M&S listened, and supported that approach, so I’m delighted to say the strawberries will be available in-store in cardboard punnets.”

Tim added: “It is amazing to be working with M&S. They weren’t just interested in the strawberries – they were genuinely passionate about working with a small grower like me. With the support of partners like Dole Ireland helping bring the fruit to shelves, it gave me the confidence to scale, and I couldn’t be prouder to be growing these berries for Northern Ireland stores.”

Shaun Doherty, Senior Agronomist at M&S said: “Getting local, fresh produce onto the shelves across all of our Northern Ireland stores is one of our biggest priorities, and working with growers like Tim is key to making that happen.

“Until this new partnership with local grower Tim O’Malley, our berries were sourced outside of Northern Ireland. Now, we’re delighted to offer strawberries that are exceptionally fresh, locally grown, and can be enjoyed right here at home – marking a significant milestone for us.

“This partnership is also a great example of our Plan A for Farming approach in action, supporting growers to adopt more resilient and innovative farming methods, while delivering high-quality produce for our customers.”

From April through to November, customers will be able to pick up Co. Armagh-grown strawberries in all 22 M&S stores across the region – with this year’s Balmoral Show attendees among the first to taste them.

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Loss to the taxpayer last year estimated to be €645 million

Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) has warned that Ireland’s illicit tobacco crisis is continuing to spiral, with the country’s untaxed cigarette market now estimated to be worth €845 million* following the publication of the Revenue Commissioners’ Illegal Tobacco Products Research Survey 2025 – independently conducted by Ipsos MRBI – which shows record levels of illegal and non-duty paid tobacco products now in circulation.

The survey finds illegal and non-duty paid tobacco in circulation has hit a record high with 38% of cigarettes in circulation being either illegal (28%) or legal but without duty paid in Ireland (10%).

The figures are even more startling for Roll-Your-Own tobacco with 45% of RYO in circulation being either illegal or non-duty paid.

According to today’s survey results, the level of tax loss in 2025 from illegal cigarettes was found to be €645 million, up from €590 million in 2024, highlighting the worsening scale of the crisis facing both the Exchequer and Irish retailers.

RAS National Spokesperson, Benny Gilsenan stated:

“Today’s finding are stark. Ireland is awash with tobacco products that have no tax paid on them in this country because they are being bought illegally or being brought into the country from cheaper markets.

The Government’s approach to Ireland’s tobacco market is driving unintended consequences, largely as a result of exorbitant excise rates which are pushing consumers towards cheaper alternatives. When legal products are priced out of reach, consumers are drawn to illicit, untaxed tobacco. Criminal networks are the clear winners, while legitimate retailers – our local convenience stores and newsagents – are the big losers.”

In response to its survey findings, Retailers Against Smuggling have called on the Government to:

• Freeze the excise rate on tobacco products in Budget 2027
• Oppose EU plans to equalise excise rates on Roll Your Own tobacco which would further drive up the price in Ireland – at a time when 45% of the market is untaxed
• Commence a similar survey of illegal and non-duty-paid products

A reply to a parliamentary question from the Minister for Finance dated 28 April 2026 stated that the value of Ireland’s taxed cigarette market was €1.38 billion in 2025. If the taxed market accounts for 62% of all cigarettes in circulation, then the untaxed market – at 38% – is valued at €845 million.

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– Retailers against Smuggling (RAS) says Ireland’s high excise rates are fuelling a boom in illicit trade

– Ireland’s untaxed cigarette market now worth €845 million

Retailers Against Smuggling (RAS) has said the publication of the Revenue Commissioners’ Illegal Tobacco Products Research Survey 2025 – independently conducted by Ipsos MRBI – proves the continued and alarming escalation of Ireland’s illicit tobacco market, with record levels of illegal and non-duty paid products now in circulation.

The survey finds illegal and non-duty paid tobacco in circulation has hit a record high with 38% of cigarettes in circulation being either illegal (28%) or legal but without duty paid in Ireland (10%).

The figures are even more startling for Roll-Your-Own tobacco with 45% of RYO in circulation being either illegal or non-duty paid.

Based on the findings from Revenue – and recent data from the Department of Finance – this means Ireland’s untaxed cigarette market is now worth €845 million*.

According to the survey results, the level of tax loss in 2025 from illegal cigarettes was found to be €645 million, up from €590 million in 2024, highlighting the worsening scale of the crisis facing both the Exchequer and Irish retailers.

RAS National Spokesperson, Benny Gilsenan stated:

“These finding are stark. Ireland is awash with tobacco products that have no tax paid on them in this country because they are being bought illegally or being brought into the country from cheaper markets.

The Government’s approach to Ireland’s tobacco market is driving unintended consequences, largely as a result of exorbitant excise rates which are pushing consumers towards cheaper alternatives. When legal products are priced out of reach, consumers are drawn to illicit, untaxed tobacco. Criminal networks are the clear winners, while legitimate retailers – our local convenience stores and newsagents – are the big losers.

In response to today’s survey finding, Retailers Against Smuggling have called on the Government to:

• Freeze the excise rate on tobacco products in Budget 2027
• Oppose EU plans to equalise excise rates on Roll Your Own tobacco which would further drive up the price in Ireland – at a time when 45% of the market is untaxed
• Commence a similar survey of illegal and non-duty-paid products

A reply to a parliamentary question from the Minister for Finance dated 28 April 2026 stated that the value of Ireland’s taxed cigarette market was €1.38 billion in 2025. If the taxed market accounts for 62% of all cigarettes in circulation, then the untaxed market – at 38% – is valued at €845 million.

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As the official coffee partner of Darkness Into Light 2026, Circle K is supporting the tens of thousands of people who will take part in the early morning walk, coming together in hope, remembrance and solidarity with those impacted by suicide and self-harm.

Darkness Into Light, proudly supported by Electric Ireland, is one of Ireland’s largest and most impactful fundraising initiatives. Last year, 80,000 people across 200 walks raised €4 million to support Pieta’s free, life-saving services. This year, more than 100,000 people are expected to take part in more than 150 locations nationwide, many of them close to Circle K stores.

While the event is a powerful moment of togetherness and hope, it also reflects the very real and ongoing impact of suicide and self-harm across Ireland. Each year, around 500 people lose their lives to suicide, and one in five people will experience suicidal thoughts in their lifetime. The impact extends far beyond the individual, with a single suicide affecting up to 135 people, including families, friends and entire communities.

Pieta continues to provide critical support to those who need it most, responding to over 100,000 crisis calls and texts last year. Importantly, every 2km walked can help fund one life-saving call to Pieta’s crisis helpline, meaning every step taken by participants has a direct impact.

Gillian McGowran, Market Development Director, at Circle K Ireland said:
“At Circle K, we are deeply proud to stand with Pieta as both a charity partner and the official coffee partner of Darkness Into Light 2026. By offering free tea and coffee to participants, we want to support and thank the incredible communities coming together this Saturday, 9 May. In the lead-up to the event, we are also encouraging customers nationwide to add a €1 donation at the till, helping to directly support Pieta’s vital, life-saving services. Together, we can help shine a light in the darkness while supporting the vital work Pieta delivers every day.”

Through its nationwide services, including in-person, phone and video therapy, and suicide bereavement support, Pieta provides free, professional care to thousands of people each year. Community fundraising events like Pieta’s Darkness Into Light are essential to helping ensure these services remain available to everyone who needs them.

Stephanie Manahan, CEO at Pieta said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Circle K for their continued support of Darkness Into Light and for helping to create such a warm and welcoming moment for participants on the morning of the walk.

Every person who takes part is helping to ensure that Pieta’s free suicide and self-harm prevention services remain available to those who need them most. If you haven’t already registered, there is still time to do so and join your local walk at darknessintolight.ie and be part of something truly meaningful.”

Launched in January 2026, Circle K’s three-year partnership with Pieta includes a commitment to raise €1 million to support vital suicide and self-harm prevention services.

How to get help

If you are thinking of self-harming, suicide, or have lost someone to suicide, Pieta offers free, professional support:

• Call 0818 111 126 to book an appointment for therapy or counselling
• If you need immediate crisis support, contact the Pieta Crisis Helpline, available 24/7, at 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444
• Pieta’s Crisis Helpline is staffed by qualified therapists 365 days a year to offer immediate, compassionate support over the phone

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