Silver Hill Duck has officially marked the commencement of construction of its new processing facility at its headquarters in Emyvale, Co. Monaghan.

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

Founded in 1962, Silver Hill Duck is a fully integrated premium duck producer.

According to the producer, 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”.

The project is supported by grant assistance from Enterprise Ireland.

The new facility, spanning approximately 5,500m², will substantially increase production capacity, Silver Hill Duck said.

Output is expected to grow from approximately 80,000 ducks per week to 120,000, enabling the company to "meet increasing demand across both domestic and international markets while maintaining standards of quality, efficiency and food safety".

According to the duck producer, 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," it said in a statement

 ‘Major step forward’

Speaking at the event, Micheál Briody, managing director of Silver Hill Duck, 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 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.

“This investment in modern technology, sustainability and innovation will create and sustain jobs, enhance quality and strengthen Ireland's reputation for premium food production.”

She congratulated the Silver Hill team, and acknowledged the support of Enterprise Ireland in reaching "this significant milestone".

Mark Christal, executive director at Enterprise Ireland said it is crucial for Irish companies to "stay competitive" in order to grow the business on both a national and global scale.

He added: “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 what it called "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 expected to be completed by summer 2027.