Tipp Is Top For Hungarians

Four Hungarian visitors were very impressed by their stay in the county last week. The four were agricultural engineering experts, representing three different universities and higher education institutes in Hungary. They chose Tipperary as the Irish stop on their European fact-finding mission. Renewable energy was the focus of their investigations, with Tipperary Institute their host for the week.Once Gabor, Istvan, Janos and Laszlo had unpacked their bags in a Thurles B&B, it was off for a walking tour of the town in the evening sunshine, escorted by Kevin Healion from TI.

Monday’s homecoming of the Tipp minor hurlers provided a joyful introduction to the county’s sporting heritage, followed by a drink in Hayes Hotel to discuss GAA history and the rules of hurling. Tuesday saw the group on TI’s Thurles campus, to get an overview of the Institute’s activities and an introduction to the Irish renewable energy scene. Off then to Cahir to visit the Tipperary Energy Agency, followed by an exploration of Cahir Castle, and a woodland walk.Wednesday’s agenda was equally busy, with a visit to TI’s Clonmel campus, a tour of a wood chip heating system, and a stop at Ballingarrane to view the lovely surroundings for TI’s future location in Clonmel. Back to Thurles then to hear how the Institute is assisting in rural development in other European countries, based on its experience of successfully running the Irish LEADER Support Unit for over two years. Music, chat and a drink in “Monk’s” was of course the conclusion to the day!On Thursday, the group got details of TI’s courses on renewable energy, domestic sustainable energy, and building energy rating. The Hungarians will use this information to assist them in further developing their own renewable energy courses.

In the past, TI staff have been privileged to be able to travel and learn from experts in other countries, and it was a source of pride for the Institute to now be able to host overseas visitors in return.A relaxed finish to the week was provided by visits to the Rock of Cashel and Holycross Abbey, further impressing the Hungarian delegation with the history, culture and hospitality of the Premier County. Even the weather put on a great show!