Authorities close to completing landmark assessments of risks posed to consumers by multiple pesticides 

Synchronisation - what will work on my farm? 

Synchronisation involves the hormonal manipulation of the cow's reproductive cycle.

Dairy firm Arla launches cost-cutting plan after Brexit hit 

Arla Foods, one of the world’s biggest dairy companies, said a weaker pound after Britain’s vote to leave the European Union prompted it to start a cost-cutting programme to save 400 million euros ($493.5 million) by the end of 2020.

EU's Barnier says still some 25% of work to do on Brexit 

The European Union’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Friday some 25 percent of work remained to be done on a pact covering UK withdrawal from the EU, including crucial issues such as management of the Ireland/Northern Ireland border.

Dail motion calling for 'hardship fund' and meal voucher scheme passed 

AN opposition motion has been passed in the Dail to deliver a ‘ hardship fund’ and meal voucher scheme to help smaller farmers severely impacted by the crisis.

Widow's tearful call for urgent review of cardiac services 

The widow of a young farmer who died from complications while being transferred between Waterford and Cork hospitals has pleaded with Health Minister Simon Harris to urgently review cardiac services.

Land dispute intensifies after 'land grabber' and 'trespassers will be shot' signs appear 

Large signs referring to "vulture funds and land grabbers" and threatening that "trespassers will be shot" have been erected on farmland allegedly being trespassed on, the High Court has heard. 

Dale Farm confirms 'interest' in LacPatrick 

The UK's largest co-op Dale Farm has said it is 'interested' in the announcement by LacPatrick yesterday that it is interested in a merger.

Brexit: Liam Fox has underestimated difficulty of getting British farmers a good trade deal, MEPs warn 

MEPs representing the UK’s agricultural communities are “deeply concerned” that Liam Fox has underestimated how difficult it will be to get British farmers a good trade deal after Brexit, according to private correspondence obtained by The Independent.

Cork cereal grower onto a winner by selling surplus produce to fellow organic farmers 

Brian O' Regan farms in Dunderrow just outside of Kinsale. A tillage and poultry farmer, he converted the tillage operation to organic production back in 2008.

Dairy farmers in dark over future as board weighs up merger 

Hundreds of dairy farmers are facing potential upheaval after LacPatrick announced it was looking at a tie-in with another business

Factories: Boost for farmers as hogget prices jump again 

Ivan Moffitt of Manorhamilton mart rates sheep as "the only job at the moment". The statement is backed up by the fact that, despite poor weather, for the second week in a row sheep farmers are walking on sunshine as factory quotes for hogget jumped another 20-25c/kg over the weekend.

First major sale of milk powder from intervention 

It is understood that almost 30,000t of Skimmed Milk Powder was sold from the EU’s massive stockpile of the product at this latest auction.

Minister for Finance urges compliant contractors to provide information on tax cheats 

The Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe has said farm contractors who are aware of rivals evading tax to make that information available to Revenue.

'My last words were, "Love you and see you in Cork" ... it was horrible' - wife of young farmer who died on way to hospital 

A MAN whose death sparked a major campaign over cardiac services in Waterford was told by his wife as he left UHW for transfer to Cork that she loved him and she would see him shortly.

Doyle announces €17m in forestry payments issuing to farmers 

The latest payment of annual tax-free forestry premiums for 2018 amounting to €17.33 million has been announced.

Watch: TV ad from 1980s with killer dog to be revived in attempt to reduce attacks on sheep 

Wicklow Uplands Council has borrowed from the past in order to highlight the message of dog control.

LacPatrick in merger talks with three firms - including rivals 

One of the biggest dairy co-ops in the Border region is in talks with as many as three potential merger partners.

Red-hot trade for hoggets could last till summer 

The red-hot trade for hoggets and lamb could last until mid-summer.

Contractors can no longer act as 'unpaid bankers' for farming 

The fodder crisis has shown the extent of over dependence of farmers on contractor credit, it has been claimed.

Call for cut to VAT rate as fodder crisis set to continue 

Farmers will receive tax cuts to help reduce the cost of feeding animals and help them cope with the ongoing fodder crisis under proposals from Fianna Fáil.

Weather won't catch you on the hoof with new app 

The decision about whether to pack an umbrella or sunscreen has just been made a little easier, thanks to the launch of seven-day forecasts online for every part of the country by Met Éireann.

It's the first time in 30 years I didn't get cows to grass in March 

If there was ever a time that farmers needed sunshine it is now. I hope that when you are reading this the sun is shining and the rain has stopped. Over the past month, the weather just seemed to get worse by the day. The heavy flooding around three weeks ago put ground conditions really back.

ESB wins appeal over legality of procedure to enter onto lands 

The ESB has won its Supreme Court appeal over a significant finding that a procedure under which the Board served a notice to enter private lands to carry out works on electricity lines is unlawful.

Cork man wins Teagasc Student of the Year award 

The overall winner of the Teagasc/FBD Insurance Student of the Year award was Conor Coakley from Co.  Cork and he attended the Teagasc Clonakilty Agricultural College.

Back to basics on breeding: The key factors farmers must consider to get cows back in calf this spring 

We have been waiting for what seems like an eternity, but finally the spring proper has arrived. We've been so busy dealing with the shortage of fodder and the terrible weather that the breeding season has crept up on us. AI and bulling are now less than two weeks away on many farms.

Germany moving ahead with plans to restrict weed-killer glyphosate 

German Agriculture Minister Julia Kloeckner on Tuesday said she was finalizing a draft regulation to end use of the weed-killer glyphosate in household gardens, parks and sports facilities, and to set “massive” limits for its use in agriculture.

LacPatrick 'pursuing strategic options' following approaches from international and national companies 

It has emerged the board of LacPatrick Dairies have agreed on pursing a number of strategic options to secure the future of the business.

Big Tom: the shy farmer who was uneasy with his superstar status 

FOR a man who was the Elvis of Irish country music, Big Tom McBride wore his status and celebrity with humility.

Beef prices edge upwards onto firmer ground 

Manchester City secured their third premier league title in seven seasons on Sunday with five games still to play.

'I've seen the state of Ireland's roads' - Taoiseach on pothole crisis 

An Taoiseach Leo Varakar has said he travelled the country over the Dail’s Easter break and saw first hand the impact of poor road conditions particularly on people living in rural areas.

3,000 in line for grants to improve water 

Homeowners will receive grants to upgrade septic tanks in areas where local rivers or lakes are polluted or at risk of failing quality standards.

Action urged as deer leave mountains to seek out food 

Farmers are calling for action as they are being invaded by hungry deer coming down off the mountains due to the long hard winter.

Irish plants to start trading with China in 'the very near future' 

Irish beef exporters are gearing up to access potentially lucrative contracts in the vast Asian marketplace of China after shipments were finally green-lit.

'Very strong' infant formula performance in China drive Danone sales 

French food production group Danone has reported sales of €6bn in the first quarter of 2018, a 10.8pc increase year-on-year, according to results from the company.

Farmer on journey from being bankrupt to owning a £14m vodka distillery 

William Chase, the 50-something entrepreneur and founder of Tyrrell's crisps, has just celebrated the 10th birthday of his second business, Chase Distillery, which sells a very different type of potato-based product – vodka.

'You don’t know what you’re talking about': Minister hits back at criticism of fodder crisis response 

Minister for State at the Department of Agriculture Andrew Doyle has hit back at criticism of the Government’s response to the fodder crisis in the Dail today.

'Sheep can be frightened and run for miles': Cooley farmers concerned by teenagers using scrambler bikes 

Concerns have been raised by the farming community in north Louth about teenagers using scrambler bikes on the Cooley mountains.

Dairygold says March milk price cut is 'regrettable but unavoidable' 

Dairygold has confirmed that it has reduced its milk price (for March milk supplies) by 2c/L to 32c/L inclusive of 0.5c/L quality bonus and VAT, based on standard constituents of 3.3pc Protein and 3.6pc Butterfat.

Analysis: Breakthrough deal has to benefit farmers to be seen as a real success 

Ireland’s latest deal to get beef into China is welcomed by industry, but its success can only be judged by the return to farmers.

Farmers fork out up to €60 per bale in north west 

Fodder prices have continued to harden over the last week on the back of increased demand at farm level.

Major investigation launched after 'despicable attack' by gang on vulnerable farmer (73) 

A local pensioner is recovering having been assaulted and threatened by a gang at his home on Tuesday night.

Carrick-on-Suir Mart closed for the 'foreseeable future' after fire 

Carrick-on-Suir Mart is set to remain closed for the "foreseeable future" following a fire that caused extensive damage in the mart last night, said Director John Curran.

Kerry holds March milk price, as Dairygold announces a cut 

Kerry Group has set its March milk price at 32c/L (VAT inclusive).

What does the Chinese beef deal mean for Ireland? 

Demand for meat in China has quadrupled over the last 30 years. However, beef consumption would be considered relatively low at 4kg per person per year, compared to 19kg per person in Ireland.

'National system needed to halt fodder crises': FF 

More fodder crises will hit farmers unless a system is established to monitor feed levels nationwide, Fianna Fáil warns.

Get set for 'that Friday feeling': Forecasters now predict temperatures to hit 20 degrees 

Thursday had been tipped to host a mini-heatwave this week, but now forecasters say the temperatures on Friday could go even higher again.

Liquidators appointed to company behind Castleblayney Mart 

Liquidators have been appointed to the company behind Castleblayney Mart in Co Monaghan.

Burglars facing 10 years in jail sentence review 

Burglars who target family homes face tougher sentences of not less than two years and up to more than 10 years in prison.

Met Eireann forecaster: I wouldn’t go as far as calling a heatwave... but parts of the country will see highs of 18C 

FOUR seasons in one week is on the way as forecasters predict strong spring sunshine giving way to more rain.

Ireland leads the way on milk processor investment 

The Irish dairy industry continues to be the EU leader in terms of investment in milk processing facilities.

Laois residential holding guided at €10,000 per acre 

A residential farm extending to 55ac at Springfield, Ballacolla, Co Laois is for sale by public auction with a guide price of €10,000 an acre.

Restricted access to penning areas at marts looks to become the "new norm" 

Restricted access to penning areas at marts looks set to become the "new norm", as marts in the north-west of the country lead the way in bringing in new health and safety measures.

€100m export market for Irish beef in China 'may just be tip of iceberg' 

A €100m export market for frozen Irish beef in China may be just the tip of the iceberg as consumption is growing rapidly among the expanding Asian middle class.

Fire services fight blaze at cattle mart 

Emergency services in Tipperary are fighting a fire in a local mart.

Ireland's butcher triumph 'great for entire industry' 

Irish butchers proved they were a cut above international competition recently when they were crowned overall winners at the World Butcher Challenge in Belfast.

UK Millennials so squeamish about handling raw meat it is to be sold in touch-free packs 

A supermarket is to introduce touch-free packaging to help squeamish millennials who are afraid to touch raw meat before cooking it.

Farming family reunited with pet dog taken in back of stolen jeep 

A farming family, who was left devastated after their beloved sheepdog was in the back of a jeep when it was robbed last week, have been reunited with their precious pet.

Strong demand sees lamb prices soar in Northern Ireland during March 

Lamb prices in Northern Ireland were up by some 28pc in March, according to latest figures from the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC).

Argentina's herd to decline by as much as 1 million head of cattle due to drought 

Argentina’s herd will shrink by up to 1 million head of cattle next year as ranchers facing scorched pastures after the worst drought in decades decide to slaughter females rather than grow their herds, analysts said.

How to grow a successful spring barley crop 

Spring barley growers have control over all the elements of growing spring barley, all but price and weather, so focus on what you can influence inside the field gate.

Are Irish farmers are missing out on organic opportunities? 

Irish MEP Sean Kelly has said that most Irish farmers are ignoring a huge new market for their produce by turning their backs on organic farming.

Concern following another detection of pesticide in drinking water 

Pesticides have been detected in drinking water sources in Co. Longford.

Tipp land in high demand area ideal for 'plough or cow' 

A traditional style farmhouse and yard on 46 acres at Gortnabarna, Ballykisteen Walk, Co Tipperary, is for sale by public auction later this month with a guide price of between €400,000 and €450,000.

Watch: Dramatic footage shows paramedics responding to real farm emergency 

Watch how emergency crews respond to a farm accident in Meath, where a bale has fallen on top of a tractor.

Chinese beef market opens to exports from Ireland 

The opening of the Chinese beef market to exports from Ireland has been confirmed.

Temperatures set to soar this week as 'African air plume' brings mini-heatwave to Ireland 

It will be a wet and windy start to the day but Ireland is set to enjoy a burst of heat this week with temperatures rising to 18C degrees.

'It's getting to the point where tillage farmers are going to have to take some hard decisions' 

It's getting to the point where some hard decisions are going to have to be made. Plans that were hatched last autumn, were revised last winter, were revised in early spring and will have to be revised again.

Minister confirms NCT test required for 'fast' tractors used for non-agricultural work 

"Fast" tractors that are being used for agricultural activities will be excluded from new regulations, introducing an NCT for vehicles that can travel over 40kmh.

The top bull at the Hereford Society Show and Sale is on his way to Donegal after selling for €5,000 

Three generations of Hereford breeding on a County Offaly farm continues to reap rewards for the Cill Cormaic Pedigree Herd as the aptly named 'Prince' delivered again.

Trade war backfire: Steel tariff shrapnel hits US farmers 

Lucas Strom, who runs a century-old family farm in rural Illinois, canceled an order to buy a new $71,000 grain storage bin last month - after the seller raised the price 5 percent in a day.

Ann Fitzgerald: IFA slowly restoring faith but real work just beginning 

"Are ye going to see the Pope?"

Georgian residence on 62ac sees for €110k under the guide 

A 62ac residential tillage and grass farm with a period house and the remnants of a traditional farmyard was recently sold in several lots by Birr auctioneer John Ryan for a total of €420,000.

Darragh McCullough: Late-night browsing pays off on 'blind buy' jeep from UK 

I've a confession to make. I've spent a good bit of time browsing porn into the small hours over the last month. Car-porn that is.

Is vertical farming the new growth area for the sector? 

The founder of The Little Pharma, which produces and sells fresh barley and wheatgrass juice shots says growing barley and wheatgrass presents real opportunities for farming partners

Television review: It's now farm folk like city folk 

It's always great fun when RTE goes down the country to meet farmers. It is a tradition stretching back to the times when RTE "personalities" really were creatures of the most outrageous glamour to the people of rural Ireland, when a star of the magnitude of Bunny Carr would come to town and the people would go mad.

Burglars facing 10 years in jail sentence review 

Burglars who target family homes face tougher sentences of not less than two years and up to more than 10 years in prison.

Farmers paying up to €40 a bale as 'alarming' number of animals starving to death 

Farmers in the west of Ireland are paying up to €40/bale - four times the usual price, while one knackery yard has reported that animals are starving to death in 'alarming' numbers.

Golden opportunity - Local and overseas interest for 'big house' and land on the market in south Tipperary 

A Georgian period house on 150ac is for sale by private treaty in the heart of the Golden Vale with a guide price in excess of €2m.

Ground Zero - Farmers up and down the country have bought zero grazers in numbers 

Farmers lucky enough to be in parts of the country where grass is starting to grow now face a different challenge - soft ground is the latest barrier in letting livestock access grass.

Building resilience - how streamlined work practices and contract rearing can insulate dairy farmers from milk price volatility 

"If you're not changing, you're standing still and eventually going backwards." This philosophy is what drove dairy farmer Patrick Traynor's decision 10 years ago to expand his dairy herd.

'The forestry will be our pension pot' - Why this suckler farmer says planting trees will help ensure his survival 

For suckler farmer Andrew O'Carroll planting forestry was a route to ensuring his farm's survival.

Meet the human rights lawyer who became a farmer in the West of Ireland 

It took Bridget Murphy two years to re-acclimatise to the wet and windy hills of the West of Ireland when she arrived "home for a visit" from South Africa in 1998.

Insect farms gear up to feed soaring global protein demand 

Layers of squirming black soldier fly larvae fill large aluminum bins stacked 10-high in a warehouse outside of Vancouver. They are feeding on stale bread, rotting mangoes, overripe cantaloupe and squishy zucchini.

LacPatrick Dairies cuts its milk price for March supplies 

The board of LacPatrick Dairies has set a price for March milk.

Banks urged to take 'reasonable' approach on loans 

BANKS and credit institutions have been urged to take an understanding and reasonable approach to farm loans and overdrafts.

EU should be addressing 'complete stranglehold' that the factories have on the livestock industry - ICOS 

While welcoming the European Commission’s proposal for a Directive on Unfair Trading Practices (UTPs) in the food supply chain ICOS National Marts said it must must also address meat factories.

Long-suffering farmers are set to suffer a little longer from the wind and rain though warm weather on the horizon 

Long-suffering Irish farmers are set to suffer a little longer from the wind and rain though hope - and a little sunshine and warm weather - is hovering on the horizon.

Farmers unaware of disease risk to themselves from healthy animals 

Most farmers are unaware that healthy animals may be a source of infection for themselves or family members.

Midlands fattening ground with 'immense potential' guided at just €5,800 per acre 

There is a guide price of €700,000 for a non-residential farm of 120ac in Ballinacor, Moyvore, Mullingar, Co Westmeath which is coming up for public auction on Thursday, April 26.

Ornua announces appointment of John Jordan as Chief Executive Designate 

The Board of Ornua has announced the appointment of John Jordan as Chief Executive Designate. 

Farmers reminded to return their 2018 BPS form online 

There is less than six weeks to go now until the closing date for submitting applications for the 2018 BPS, the deadline is Tuesday 15 May 2018.

Small border farms may get tax-free status - UK Brexit Secretary 

Farms and small businesses that straddle the Irish border could be given tax-free status, the Brexit Secretary has said.

Milk sector must adapt to demands of sustainable production - Dairygold CEO 

Irish farming needs to adapt to the challenges of sustainable production and climate change, Dairygold CEO Jim Woulfe has warned.

Alarm bells are ringing but weather data suggests we are over the worst 

This year is shaping up as one that will be deeply etched in farmers' memories for all the wrong reasons.

Boost for US farmers as Trump says he may allow ethanol gasoline sales all year 

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday his administration may allow the sale of gasoline containing 15pc ethanol year-round, which could help farmers by firing up corn demand but faces opposition from Big Oil.

Lands burned in 2017 will be eligible for future payments 

Farmers who burned land in 2017 will be eligible for future payments, including in 2018, the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) has said.

How to rear calves to reach a target weaning weight at 12 weeks 

Rearing calves requires a high level of management, particularly in the first couple of weeks. As a rule of thumb a calf must gain 0.7kg every day on your farm to reach target weaning weight at 12 weeks.

Spring at last? Mercury finally forecast to rise as warmth pushes up from the Med 

WARMER weather will bring some welcome relief for winter-weary Ireland with temperatures rising to the high teens next week.

Control of roaming deer is up to farmers - Department 

The Department of Culture and Heritage has this week said that they are not responsible for controlling red deer following calls from farmers in south Kerry last week for help.

Farmers urged to face health issues - Stress levels rising due to weather and financial worries 

Farmers have been urged to take care of their mental health in the same way they would their physical well-being.

The hidden scourge of lameness 

Given the tight margins in beef production, anything that erodes them should be avoided or minimised.

Glanbia holds milk price for March supplies but warns market only returning 27c/L 

Glanbia will hold its March milk price for members at 33 cent per litre (cpl) including VAT.

Crow banger to be tested for decibel levels - Judge 

Judge David Waters had said that 'expert evidence' is needed before he can make a decision on exactly how loud a crow-banger was in a civil case over a device being used by a Kilgarvan farmer to protect his livestock.

John Fagan: Grass tetany a big danger if we get a sudden burst of growth 

Farewell to the winter and spring from hell. That wasn’t a lot of fun. We all have our stories to tell and it will live long in my memory.

Carlow student on milking 770 cows in New Zealand 

As a compulsory part of second semester, Agricultural Science students in Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) have to complete 15 weeks work placement. Jamie Doran .

Why the bee population has been hit by 'serious losses' since January 

Excessive use of insecticides and proposed changes to the laws regarding hedge cutting will cause further depletion of our declining bee population, bee expert Philip McCabe has warned.

New protocol agreed for empty BVD samples - IFA 

The development of a protocol between the Department of Agriculture, BVD testing laboratories and tag supply companies, will offset some of the difficulties associated with empty BVD samples for farmers, according to IFA Animal Health Chairman Pat Farrell.

Lakeland cuts milk price, but 'balances' price with 2.5c/L support payment 

Lakeland Dairies has cut its March milk price by 2.5c/L, but announced that it will "balance a reduction in the March milk price with a payment to support milk producers during the current very poor milk production conditions caused by bad weather and the fodder crisis".

Calls for farm watch scheme after cattle worth almost €35k stolen from farms in Co Tyrone border area 

More than 30 cows believed to be valued at over £30,000 (€34,466) have been stolen from a border community in two separate incidents in recent weeks.

'I am down to my very last bale of silage': Farmer says Fodder Import Scheme has come too late 

A farmer down to his last bale of silage says worries about the welfare of his animals are always at the back of his mind.

Marts trade: Buyers think 'forward' as weather keeps sales on hold 

Weather and grass considerations continue to affect the mart trade as those with stock to sell appear to be holding back on numbers thus far.

EU to launch plan to protect European farmers from unfair trading 

The European Commission will announce a series of measures on Thursday to protect small European farmers and food producers from what it says are unfair trading practices by larger corporations.

Controversial EU rules 'risk giving Russia monopoly over Europe's fertiliser market' 

Concerns are mounting that new EU rules to limit the amount of toxin in fertilisers will give Russia an “effective monopoly” over the market and power over European food supply.

Analysis: All the warning signs of a fodder crisis were in the weather data 

One thing is certain - this will not be the last fodder crisis. The question which now arises is how similar problems can be avoided in the future.

Factories: Hogget prices rise 25c/kg as positive cycle gathers pace 

The factory sheep trade pushed into further positive territory this week as hogget price increased by as much as 25c/kg. All the factories quoted a minimum of €6.00/kg for hogget, while Kildare Chilling moved to €6.10+10c/kg bonus, just ahead of both Dawn Ballyhaunis and Kepak Athleague, who are on €6.05/kg + 5c/kg bonus.

Lessons must be learned on fodder crisis, admits Creed 

Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has admitted that "lessons" will have to be learned from the fodder crisis gripping the country, but denied it was time to "dismantle" the ambitious plans to grow the multi-billion euro agri-sector.

Lakeland Dairies looks to value-added markets as it targets €1bn in revenues 

Valuable infant formula and on-trend nutritional products will be key growth targets for Lakeland Dairies as it aims to hit annual revenues of more than €1bn by 2021.

Farmer threatened with slash-hooks as he tried to stop daylight robbery 

Gardaí are following a definite line of enquiry in relation to a violent burglary in which a farmer was threatened with knives and slash-hooks by a three-man gang.

Ornua returns in March signal sub 30c/L milk price 

Ornua's Purchase Price Index fell again in March and is now at levels not seen since last summer.

'The way things stand we are already a month behind on winter barley' - Tillage farmer with 500ac on dire weather conditions 

It has been a long winter for Co Tipperary tillage farmer Noel Delany and it will be an even longer spring as the wet weather continues to hammer down on his 500acre farm near Fethard in Co Tipperary.

'A lot of farmers are not signing up to buy imported fodder as they don't have the money' 

The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has been told that many farmers are not signing up to buy imported fodder as they don't have the money to pay for it.

'Factories don't know where they are going to get finished cattle' - Beef prices to rise 'significantly' 

While there was no general forward movement on prices over the week, some with market-specific stock succeeded over the weekend in pushing the price boundaries.

Arlene Foster's ex-advisor admits email to farmer relative on RHI improper 

A former special adviser to the DUP has said it was "inappropriate" for him to have emailed relatives with details of changes to cost controls in the Renewable Heat Incentive - months before they were announced.

Over 30 cows worth thousands stolen from Northern farms 

More than 30 cows have been stolen from two farms in a village in Co Tyrone.

Irish-made Keogh's Crisps secure major contract with the largest international airline in the world 

Keogh’s Crisps of North Dublin has secured a major contract with Emirates, the largest international airline in the world, which will see an estimated one million bags being served onboard annually. 

Watch: Fodder crisis song a hit across the country 

As the fodder crisis continues and politicians meet today to discuss the ongoing situation nationwide, Kilkenny duo Knots Down & Out have produced a very catchy tune about the situation.

Revenue at Lakeland Dairies surges as the group targets infant formula opportunities 

Infant milk formulas and health-related nutritional products are key growth targets for north-western milk processor Lakeland Dairies as it recorded a 28pc surge in revenue to over €769m.

In Pictures: International buyer snaps up 513ac Castletown Cox estate for around €20m 

A large Irish country estate and mansion, Castletown Cox in Co Kilkenny, has been sold to an international buyer for more than €20 million.

Children of flood-affected farmers to get planning exemptions 

The children of farmers whose land is affected by flooding could soon have access to special planning exemptions under new proposals.

Major calf exporter moves to buying bulk of its calves direct from farmers 

One of the country's major calf exporters has moved to buy the bulk of its calves direct from farmers.

Farmers facing fodder crisis 'double whammy' 

Farmers are facing a 'double whammy' from weather woes as costs surge due to fodder bills while milk collections slump.

Temporary Aurivo mart closures after customer is injured by bull 

Aurivo has announced that its four livestock marts will remain temporarily closed this week following an accident involving a customer and a bull that occurred over the weekend in Mohill Mart.

Looking after the carers - Means-tested and PRSI- based carers' payments are available to farm families 

For many families with an ageing or disabled relative, nursing home care may not be an acceptable option, or indeed an affordable one.

Mairead McGuiness tipped for Presidency 

FINE Gael MEP Mairead McGuiness is currently joint favourite to be the next President of Ireland.

Limerick farm sold after 'disappointing' auction 

Despite a shaky start, all ended well at a West Limerick auction last week when a 51ac farm at Lower Shanid, Shanagolden sold in two lots after being withdrawn. The combined proceeds from the sale amounted to €465,000, or just over €9,100/ac.

Shannon Airport offers to bring grass cutting forward to support farmers through fodder crisis 

Shannon Airport has pledged its support to farmers battling the current fodder crisis by offering to repeat its intervention of 2013 when it harvested silage from its 400 acre site.

Tillage farmers urged to grow fodder crops, amid concerns around early silage crops yields and quality 

The 2017/18 cropping season is being severely impacted by the current bad spell of weather and crop options have narrowed considerably but the possibility to grow fodder for livestock farmers should be strongly considered, according to Teagasc.

'Dairy farmers in massive trouble if there isn't a change in the weather' - Wexford IFA chairman says farmers' mental health is of huge concern 

The Chairman of Wexford IFA has said dairy farmers in the county will be in 'massive trouble' if there isn't a significant change in the weather over the coming days and if fodder reserves aren't imported into the county.

See inside this prime 82ac Meath farm which is guided at €500,000 

About 14 years ago I travelled a few times a week for three months from the midlands to and from Dromcronath in north Meath, close to the border with Louth.

China deal boosts Mark Goodman firm 

A consultancy and investment firm established by Larry Goodman's son Mark made almost a €2.2m profit last year, according to accounts for the business.

Garda alert after attempted robbery of a jeep from a farmyard 

Gardai in Meath have issued an alert after individuals acting suspicously attempted to take a jeep from a farmyard in the county.

'Hard-working and honest' farmer who died in a farming accident named locally 

Tributes are being paid to an “honest and hard-working” farmer who was killed in a farming accident in Moylough, Ballinasloe, Co Galway on Sunday.

Could Compulsory Purchase Order Bill reduce land owners' legal rights? 

A new bill is currently moving through the Dáil which will see a legal basis provided to IDA Ireland, the semi-State body responsible for foreign direct investment into Ireland, to compulsorily purchase land following its failed High Court bid to secure land for an Intel extension.

Bayer reaches deal with US for approval to buy Monsanto - reports 

Bayer shares jumped nearly 5pc on Tuesday following a media report that the U.S. Justice Department will allow the German drugs and pesticides group to acquire Monsanto in a $62.5 billion deal.

Fianna Fail to demand short-term loan to compensate farmers for fodder crisis at Dail meeting 

Farmers will get a short-term loan to compensate for difficulties brought on by the fodder crisis, under proposals to be brought to government by Fianna Fáil tomorrow.

Co-ops warned goodwill generated by fodder crisis support will be 'destroyed' with milk price cut 

Co-ops have been warned that they must show their understanding of the extreme hardship and stress levels on farms in the only way that will count for dairy farmers - by holding the March milk price. 

'We aim to reseed 10 to 12pc of the farm annually' - Top grassland farmer sees reseeding as a vital part of the grassland management 

Reseeding has long been touted as one of the most cost effective on-farm investments, with payback expected within two years.

Stolen tractor ploughs into side of house causing significant damage 

Police are appealing for information after a tractor was driven into the side of a house in Co Derry.

I’m not happy with the Department inspector, what can I do? 

UK set to ban exporting live animals for slaughter after announcing major review 

The UK has moved towards a ban on exporting live animals for slaughter after announcing a major review of laws regulating their transport.

Long journey pays big dividends - Louth men sell five bulls for €14k after 400km round trip 

A 400km round trip from Drogheda paid dividends for the Holstein breeder with the largest entry at the IHFA Pedigree Premier Bull Show and Sale at Nenagh Mart.

Beastly weather exposes the futility of calendar farming 

There is a serious backlog of work on most tillage farms. We have very few fields fit for ploughing and no sowing done yet despite being into April. It's yet more proof, if needed, of the futility of calendar farming.

'About one in every five cows is being carried on a long holiday - we have a lot of passengers' 

More focus needs to be placed on herd fertility and culling in order to achieve dairy efficiency and profitability, says Teagasc dairy specialist Joe Patton.

'I only got three to four hours of sleep per night during the last week' - Farmer on lambing around the clock in Donegal 

Poor weather conditions have added to the pressures of a hectic lambing season in the north-west

Scramble for deals at the IHFA show and sale as achieves its highest clearance for several years 

The IHFA  Pedigree Premier Bull Show and Sale at Nenagh Mart set a pace of demand not experienced at any breed sale to date this year.

'Every day that my cows kept indoors is costing around €100' 

For Cork dairy farmer Dan Bourke fodder deliveries from the UK simply couldn't have been timed better.

Amarenco gets Cork solar farm go-ahead despite opposition by some locals 

Irish solar firm Amarenco, headed by former Bord Gáis boss John Mullins, has been given the go-ahead by An Bord Pleanála for a 5MW solar farm in Cork following a lengthy planning process.

Man (60s) dies in farming accident after being attacked by cow 

A man in his late 60s has been killed in a farming accident in Moylough, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.

Agri a 'high risk' sector for human trafficking 

Agriculture has been identified by the Council of Europe as a high-risk sector for human trafficking.

Retired farmer convicted after turning farmyard into a waste management site 

A load of rubbish led to convictions handed down at the District Court in Gorey for a retired farmer and a skip hire operator.

Bishop of Cork says farmers in crisis asking for prayers over lack of fodder 

As farmers continue to battle unseasonable weather which has delayed grazing across the country the Bishop of Cork and Ross, John Buckley has said he has been approached by farmers for prayers.

How many cows can one person sustainably manage? 

With increasing cow numbers it is essential that workloads are sustainable to ensure a resilient farm business into the future, according to Teagasc.

Weather update - 'Could be a fortnight before livestock can be returned to fields' 

Spring may have sprung but winter-weary Irish householders were warned to keep their umbrellas and raincoats to hand.

Farmers warned not overload on concentrates to compensate for energy deficit in cows 

Dairy farmers are being advised to prioritise the highest quality silage to milking cows.

Tag issues are creating log-jam in BDGP scheme 

Ongoing delays in issuing genotyping tags for the BDGP scheme are causing major problems for suckler farmers, it has been warned.

Good prices achieved for tillage and grazing land at Kilkenny land letting auction 

Land letting is continuing apace, even for con-acre, with Castlecomer auctioneer Joseph Coogan conducting a busy letting auction last week where good prices were achieved for tillage and grazing land.

Revised rotations hold key to getting grass targets back on track this Spring 

The weather has thrown everything at us this winter from storm Emma to "The Beast from East" all coupled with above normal rainfall and below normal temperatures.

‘Young dairy farmers will struggle without a 35c/l milk price ’ 

Alfie Hughes was reviewing progress on the “rebuild” on his three span shed at his farm in Inch, Co Wexford when we spoke last week, while at the same time taking what shelter he could from the incoming hail and sleet of the latest storm.

Opinion: Watch out for the Belgian Guy as Brexit end-game begins to unfold 

Some of you will already know who Guy Verhofstadt is. Most of the rest of us will know a lot more about him over the coming six months, as he could well become an important figure in deciding Ireland's fate in a post-Brexit world.

Opinion: Some farmers headlong rush into dairy expansion has simply left them with more work and more debt 

'Same old, same old' must be the most dispiriting response one can get to the question, "How are things?"

This farmer's life was transformed by a kidney transplant - Now he’s giving something back 

'I'm really grateful and I haven't looked back since." That's how 19-year-old farmer Sean Vaughan describes his life since receiving an organ donation for kidney failure in 2016.

This 107ac Limerick holding includes an architect designed residence and forestry 

Holy Thursday saw me travel deep into the heart of West Limerick, my own home territory.

Many farmers struggling in fodder crisis aided others in need 

Many farmers now struggling with the fodder crisis had freely given away their fodder months earlier to help others, said a leading livestock farmer.

Rural consumer confidence to take a hit 

Consumer confidence in rural Ireland is expected to take a hit in the coming weeks and months due to the effect of both the fodder shortage and falling milk prices.

It's time to take stock after a relentless lambing season 

Last month I was keeping fingers crossed for a few weeks of fine weather but for the two weeks of lambing all we got was a few fine days.

Midas touch - The farmer's sons who are the go-to-men for elite of national hunt racing 

It has been quite a few weeks for Donnchadh Doyle and the team at Monbeg Stables. Breaking sales records, and churning out nine point-to-point winners in a single weekend - it is one spring season that they will remember for years to come.

Opinion: Michael D goes back to his roots in the heart of point-to-point 

On Friday, March 9, Siobhán Madden, was tidying her desk at the AIB bank in Adare, Co Limerick, in preparation for taking the following week off to go to Cheltenham, when she got a prank call.

Farmers didn't want any imported fodder before now: Creed 

Farmers would have refused an offer to import fodder in February, Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has claimed.

Creed may not control the weather, but he should pay better attention to it 

Michael Creed may not control the weather, but he might be best advised to pay better attention to it.

Opinion: We need to explore new solutions to fodder crisis 

My father is a great believer of the saying "old hay is old gold".

EU sugar companies struggle to survive as prices plunge post-quotas 

European Union sugar companies have emerged from the cocoon of production quotas and are now fighting to survive in a fiercely competitive world market with prices and profits plunging.

The guessing game - With less than a year to Brexit, confusion and uncertainty reign 

"Our national journey out of the EU is almost over - and a glorious view awaits." As the clock ticks towards Brexit that is the worldview of the UK's foreign secretary Boris Johnson.

Farmers and poorer regions will bear brunt of post-Brexit cutbacks 

The EU has again warned farmers and poorer regions to prepare for a round of post-Brexit budget cuts.

Watch how Krone's new BaleCollect system works 

BaleCollect 1230 is Krone’s first bale collector and was launched at this year’s Agritechnica.

Why if you’re milking cows after 6pm, you’re doing something wrong 

As Ireland’s national dairy herd increases and farmers expand their herds, the need for efficient workflow can result in a big impact on the amount of time spent working.

Fodder support for farmers to be extended into June 

Agriculture Minister Michael Creed vowed the Government's fodder support scheme will be extended into June for livestock farmers if required.

Vale of Avoca farm sells for €470,000 

A 52ac residential farm at Sulphur Brook in Co Wicklow’s Vale of Avoca sold in lots during and after auction last week, making a total of €470,000.

Weather takes costly toll on animal health - Vets report big increase in pneumonia, mastitis and milk fever 

Vets are encountering a big increase in animal health problems on farms with a rise in mastitis, milk fever, viral pneumonia and joint-ill being reported.

Rules of the road to be 'relaxed' for lorry drivers transporting fodder 

The Road Safety Authority is to adopt a 'pragmatic' approach when reviewing lorry driver’s hours compliance when transporting fodder.

How to apply for the fodder subsidy 

The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed announced a €1.5m financial contribution by his Department to help subsidise farmers who have to import fodder, in light of dwindling forage supplies in Ireland.

Prince Charles reunited with sisters more than 50 years after dairy farm stay 

Four sisters who used to spend their weekends with the Prince of Wales when he was 17 have been reunited with the heir to the throne after more than half a century.

How this college is helping dairy farmers combat price volatility 

Education programmes for dairy farmers to enable them to acquire new skillsets to increase awareness of the implications of price volatility is the brainchild of Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) in collaboration with Cork County Council.

Dairy outlook is still positive despite processors' latest milk price bombshell 

The spring of 2018 will linger long in the memory as one of the tough ones on farmers, especially dairy farmers. Most farmers are now seeing the back wall of their silage pits, something they haven't seen since the spring of 2013.

How these potatoes have been delayed by Beast from the East 

The Jersey Royal season is at least three weeks late this year after the Beast from the East delayed the planting of the much-anticipated spring crop.

Comment: Fodder crisis is a nightmare scenario – and cost could be felt for years 

For us farmers, not having enough fodder to feed your stock is the stuff of nightmares.

Floods and freezing weather to hit as farm crisis worsens 

Deluges of heavy rain across large parts of the country will bring flash flooding, waterlogged fields and burst river banks.

IFA demands halt to vacant site levies on farmland 

Attempts by local authorities to hit farmland with the 'vacant' site levy are completely unacceptable, it has been warned.

Go Vegan billboard draws ire and ink from traditional food producer 

There are changes in the world around us that come creeping up on us and there are those that march right up to our noses and announce: Here I Am.

Live Three weather warnings in place as flooding reported in several places 

Deluges of heavy rain across large parts of the country will bring flash flooding, waterlogged fields and burst river banks.

Creed announces details of fodder import scheme and eases GLAS rules 

The Minister for Agriculture Food and the Marine, Michael Creed has announced that he has allocated €1.5 million towards the introduction of a Fodder Import Support measure.