A new training centre for Beekeepers has opened at Powerstown in Clonmel.
The project was funded by Bulmers Irish Cider, Tipperary County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Tributes were paid to all visionary beekeepers of the South Tipperary Beekeepers Association who raised more than half of the funds required for the project.
The facility was officially opened by Cathaoirleach Marie Murphy.
The facility is available to members of the South Tipperary Beekeepers Association and full details of membership can be found at www.southtippbees.com
Speaking earlier today on TMWR Aoife Nic Giolla Coda, Chairperson of the STBA says the loss of habitat especially hedgerows and tree variety is a major threat to bees and honey production.
In addition the STBA wants stricter regulation of imported bees as they pose a threat to the genetic identity of the native honey bee.
Bees play a key role in pollination of crops in addition to producing honey.
Ms Nic Giolla Coda is the owner operator of the Galtee Honey Farm with an estimated 3.9 million bees in her approximately 65 hives.
