Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council recently welcomed a delegation of around 40 French elected officials as part of a wider study visit to Northern Ireland, organised by the Northern Ireland Executive Office and the Association de Formation des Élus de Puisaye-Forterre.
Welcomed to The Palace Demesne in Armagh by Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray, the delegation enjoyed a guided tour of the historic site, and an overview of how the Council delivers local services, supports economic development and promotes the borough’s strong agricultural and tourism sectors.
Their visit also provided an opportunity to experience the borough’s renowned Food Heartland produce, with a locally inspired lunch prepared by Dante’s Deli at the Palace, showcasing homegrown ingredients and authentic flavours from across the area.
Following their time in Armagh City, the group travelled to Long Meadow Cider’s ‘Bramley Barn’ near Portadown. This award-winning family-run agri-business sits in the heart of the borough’s orchard county. There, delegates heard a presentation on the Councils agricultural strategy and Food Heartland initiative before taking part in an orchard and cider experience, highlighting the county’s Bramley Apple PGI status – complete with tastings and the chance to meet local producers.
Speaking about the visit, Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray said: “It was a pleasure to welcome our French visitors and share with them the heritage, hospitality and innovation that define our borough. We were proud to showcase just a sample of the very best of our people and places as well as the exceptional local produce that makes our Food Heartland truly special. I trust they will return to France with fond memories of County Armagh and a true appreciation of all that our borough has to offer.”
The Association de Formation des Élus de Puisaye-Forterre, based in Saint-Fargeau, France, supports the training and professional development of local elected officials from the region. Led by Jacques Gilet, the association organises workshops, study visits, and practical case studies to help mayors and councillors strengthen their skills in areas such as governance, environmental management, and cultural heritage.
The study visit aimed to deepen understanding of local government structures in Northern Ireland while exploring key themes such as environmental management, education, housing, and rural development — all areas of shared importance for the visiting mayors, many of whom are newly elected and represent rural regions in France.
The delegation’s stop in the borough marked one of several engagements across Northern Ireland designed to promote international exchange and best practice among local government leaders.
