Budget Cuts Keep River Bush Salmon Station's Doors Closed for This Year's Salmon & Whiskey Festival

We have some disappointing news to share if you had set your sights on visiting the River Bush Salmon Station during this year's Salmon & Whiskey Festival in Bushmills.

Due to budgetary cutbacks by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the station won't participate in the festival this year.

DAERA shed light on their decision by mentioning a 1.5% reduction in their non-earmarked resource budget for this year.

They highlighted the challenge of coping with new statutory obligations and unexpected inflationary pressures, both of which have notably increased their operational costs.

For those unfamiliar, the Bushmills Salmon Station, managed by DAERA, is a remarkable facility that plays a crucial role in salmon production in Northern Ireland.

Over the years, it has been a festival highlight, offering visitors a unique window into the world of salmon production. The station's absence from the festival this year will surely be felt by attendees who looked forward to this enlightening experience.

Causeway Coast & Glens Council first communicated that the salmon station would not open at this year's festival in a press release on the 23rd August. 

Hopefully, the circumstances will change next year, allowing the River Bush Salmon Station to grace the Salmon & Whiskey Festival again with its presence and knowledge.