TB outbreak spiralling out of control warns IFA 

Irish farmer and top restaurant team up for beekeeping project 

In Myrtleville, Co Cork, Mark Riordan has come up with a novel way of operating the beehives that he keeps on his family farm.

Chicken campaigner who became social media star attacked by vegans who say eating eggs is evil 

A chicken campaigner who became a social media star alongside her birds has been targeted by extreme vegans who believe eating eggs is evil.

New tourist campaign aims to boost rural and farming communities 

The Head of Fáilte Ireland's latest tourism campaign 'the Hidden Heartlands' is hopeful that the new venture will bring visitors to some of the midlands' most epic sights and give a boost to rural areas.

Agricultural extravaganza as 60,000 enjoy Tullamore Show 

A soft start to the day didn't deter the 60,000 visitors who flocked to the Tullamore Show in Co Offaly. The 250-acre Butterfield Estate showground was filled with the sound of music, children, chat and some 2,000 animals.

Farmers urged to check barns and outhouses for missing man 

Farmers living along the Donegal border have been asked to check outhouses and barns for a missing 26-year-old man.

Loan scheme launched for Scottish farmers affected by adverse weather 

Loans to help farmers hit by months of adverse weather are being offered by the Scottish Government.

US corn and soy crop condition ratings likely to decline 

The US Department of Agriculture was expected to cut crop condition ratings for corn, soybeans and spring wheat due to dry weather in parts of the country and as some fields died naturally ahead of harvest, according to a Reuters poll on Monday.

Aryzta bites bullet with plan to raise €800m equity 

The embattled Swiss-Irish baked goods firm Aryzta has announced an €800m rights issue that management hopes will create a more stable foundation for its recovery.

New Claas Baler features new rollers and a stronger chassis 

The latest Rollant 540 fixed-chamber round baler features new rollers and a stronger chassis, with the choice of net or film wrapping.

Aubrac bull weighing a massive 1250kg steals the show at Tullamore 

Meet Poupeii, a 10y/o Aubrac pedigree bull, weighing in at a massive 1250kg spotted at the Tullamore Show yesterday.

Farmers warned extension to slurry spreading dates is weather dependent 

Farmers have been warned that the extension to fertiliser and slurry spreading period is dependent on the weather.

Explainer: Why US court decision over Roundup is big news for everyone 

In what has been dubbed by many as one of the most significant court rulings ever, chemical and biotechnology giant Monsanto was found liable for a former groundskeeper's terminal cancer and ordered to pay him $289m.

Meaty issues: does demand for plant-based food pose a threat to meat producers? 

Irish meat and dairy producers feel they need to connect more with consumers as they face a challenge from the growing appetite for vegan and vegetarian diets.

Glanbia and Lakeland announce milk prices for July supplies 

Glanbia will pay its Member milk suppliers 32 cent per litre (cpl) including VAT for July manufacturing milk supplies at 3.6pc butterfat and 3.3pc protein.

Aryzta shares tumble as company plans raise up to €800m in equity 

Shares in embattled Swiss-Irish food group Aryzta, which owns the Cuisine de France brand, tumbled more than 11pc in Dublin in early trading as the company said it will raise up to €800m in equity to primarily repay debt.

Soil moisture deficits remain high over east Munster and parts of Leinster 

Rainfall totals over the last seven days have been well below normal with much of Leinster receiving less than 20pc of normal, according to Met Eireann.

Theft of 12 tractors fuels fears of rural crimewave 

Twelve vintage tractors of "great sentimental value" have been stolen from a Co Down farm as rural crime rates continue to soar.

Food firms warned to plan for post-Brexit supply challenges 

A new Bord Bia report confirms that Brexit is the single biggest challenge facing the food and drink industry, and within that, the supply chain is one of the highest risks.

Drought slashes EU wheat production, export surplus to be cut 

Drought and a heatwave that scorched fields in northern Europe may cut the European Union’s wheat export surplus and the bloc will need to consume more of its own grains, experts said on Friday.

Bayer shares slide after Monsanto's Roundup cancer trial 

Shares in Bayer plunged more than 10 percent to their lowest in almost two years after a California jury ordered the German company's subsidiary Monsanto to pay $289 million in damages last week.

Farmers to get fertiliser spreading extension to mid September 

Farmers have been given a fertiliser extension to mid September, the Minister for Agriculture announced yesterday at the Tullamore Show.

Killowen Farm: Dairy farmer on the 'art of the possible' and other ways to get a return on his investment, time and effort 

Farms are valuable assets and, as with any business, maximising the value from that asset makes good commercial sense.

Christmas trees hit hard by drought as up to a third feared lost 

Christmas tree growers fear that the recent drought has decimated about 30pc of this year's crop.

Agricultural extravaganza as 60,000 enjoy Tullamore Show 

A soft start to the day didn't deter the 60,000 visitors who flocked to the Tullamore Show in Co Offaly.

No plans for dollar move at Glanbia 

Glanbia has no plans to start reporting its financial results in dollars, despite foreign exchange swings during the first half of the year that meant the group's reported revenue and earnings showed much bigger declines than it experienced on a constant currency basis.

Farmers welcome fertiliser delay but want fodder help 

Farmers have welcomed an extension of the fertiliser-spreading deadline but warn more needs to be done to address fodder shortages.

Milk and mares driving southern land sales boom 

The farm property scene in Munster is flying with much of the action happening around Cork and Tipperary.

Some timely rainfall has seen sheep farmers in Donegal escape the worst of the drought 

This report is the latest update from Michael Duffy's sheep farm in Kerrykeel, 23 miles north of Letterkenny on the Fanad Peninsula in Donegal.

Old Irish goats are on their last legs without State aid 

The continuing neglect of our native goat breed is costing Irish agriculture niche market opportunities and depriving the environment of natural allies, a leading advocate for the animals has warned.

'Forestry is the biggest threat to rural life here' 

The Government "better get their skates on" and come up with a workable fodder plan if they want to ensure farmers throughout the country have enough feed for their herds come winter time, warns Shane McHugh, a 29-year-old who farms with his father Gerard in Fenagh, Co Leitrim.

The silent killer lurking in a bale of hay 

That fount of equine knowledge, Ted Walsh, can be widely entertaining in a radio interview, as well as being deadly serious about a real danger to the welfare of horses very visible at this time of year.

Farming finance: Prudent planning needed to beat the Fair Deal 'Catch 22' of farm families 

The Government has approved a proposal to change the treatment of farms and businesses under the Nursing Home Support Scheme, also known as the Fair Deal Scheme. A review of the scheme carried out in 2015 undertook to examine how farm land and business aasets are assessed under the mean test.

High expectations for a north Tipperary classic on 44 acres 

I put my wellies and my rain-jacket into the car for the first time in months as I set off on my latest farm-walking trek. By the time I got to Roscrea in Co Tipperary and opened the car door, I realised that, not only were the wellies surplus to requirements, I was completely overdressed for the balmy 25°C temperature that greeted me.

Appeal for information after 12 vintage tractors are stolen 

Police in Northern Ireland have issued an appeal for information after 12 vintage tractors were stolen.

Darragh McCullough: Let's apply a bit of perspective to estimates of a 60pc drop in dairy incomes 

Teagasc's estimate that dairy incomes will fall by 60pc this year was stark enough to make headlines. But dairy farmers are not the worst-off following this year's drought.

Factories take hard line on cull cow weight limits 

Beef factories have rejected calls from the ICMSA to amend their mandatory weight limits for cows and the associated penalties.

Gene-editing startups ignite the next 'Frankenfood' fight 

In a suburban Minneapolis laboratory, a tiny company that has never turned a profit is poised to beat the world's biggest agriculture firms to market with the next potential breakthrough in genetic engineering - a crop with "edited" DNA.

Britons safe to use weedkiller, Monsanto insists after £226m cancer lawsuit loss 

The maker of Roundup weedkiller has insisted British consumers are safe to use the product after a US jury backed a groundsman’s claim the pesticide contributed to his terminal cancer.

Man to be jailed over his refusal to not trespass on farmland at centre of bitter row 

The High Court has jailed a farmer over his refusal to obey orders not to trespass on or come within 100m of lands in Co Wexford.

Celebrity ram lives up to star billing with €4,200 sale 

Ireland's celebrity Suffolk ram, Lakeview Heart of Gold, is delivering handsome dividends for his Donegal-based owner Seamus Browne.

Glanbia announces details of new US cheese plant 

Glanbia has announced further details of its planned cheese and whey production facility in Michigan.

Tommy Boland: Measuring ewe efficiency has produced some surprising results 

The recent rainfall is welcome at Lyons farm, as it is around the country. We are seeing grass growth recovering somewhat, and the rainfall was certainly timely for the Redstart, which was sown following the harvest of whole crop wheat on July 27th.

Additional work permits granted for non-EU meat processing workers announced due to 'critical' shortage 

The Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD, has today signed off on further changes to Employment Permit Regulations, which will make it easier for the meat processing sector to source workers from outside the EEA.

Futuristic combines - Enhanced automated features are the big selling point of a new range of combines from Case IH 

Three new combines that make up the Axial-Flow 250 series have just been launched by Case IH in a bid to maximise operator efficiency and crop quality.

Kerry increases its July milk price and considers bad weather payments to farmers 

Kerry Group has announced a milk price rise of 1c/L (VAT inclusive) to its suppliers for July milk.

Forestry sales down in Connacht and Ulster with poorer land proving a hard sell 

Most land sales take place by private treaty and this is especially true of land sales in Connacht/Ulster so it is perhaps unfair to compare its land market with other regions in a survey using the public auction as a yardstick.

Gerard Sherlock: We are aiming for a third cut to be on the safe side 

Our next bank holiday is at the end of October, a sure sign that this year is flying in and it will definitely be a year to remember.

NZ dairy giant Fonterra cuts milk price target, as profit margins shrink 

New Zealand’s Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd,, the world’s largest dairy exporter, on Friday cut its earnings guidance and slightly lowered its forecast for the farmgate milk price.

Pain grows for Irish exporters as the pound's slump continues 

Irish agriculture and food exporters are feeling the pressure of Brexit uncertainty as the pound-to-euro exchange rate hits a nine-month low.

Opinion: Brussels doublethink on GM crops doesn't add up 

We have started the harvest earlier than ever before, but I'll get to that later; first I am going to mention something topical in tillage farming in Europe.

Straw prices soar across Europe, piling pressure on livestock farmers 

Livestock and dairy farmers across northern Europe are paying soaring prices for straw used in food and bedding for cattle, as hot, dry weather across the region reduces crops.

The Dutch dairy dilemma - How dairy farmers in the Netherlands are coping with new phosphates regulations 

Phosphates regulations in The Netherlands are causing huge problems for around 800 farmers who face the harsh decision whether to invest in more phosphates rights or indeed sell up.

Farmers face uphill battle to secure credit from the banks 

ICMSA has questioned the bona-fides of the banks regarding their willingness to finance farmers through the current fodder crisis.

Glanbia warns tariffs could disrupt dairy prices, growth plans 

The imposition of trade tariffs around the world could cause some disruption to dairy prices and affect growth objectives Irish nutrition company Glanbia laid out in May, its finance director said on Thursday.

Limerick farmer offers to swap straw for All-Ireland final tickets 

One Limerick farmer has signalled his willingness to make an unusual bargain to secure tickets to this month's hugely anticipated All-Ireland hurling final between Limerick and Galway.

Asking price of €1.65m for a powerful residential tillage farm on the Carlow/Kilkenny border 

A number of farms on the Carlow/Kilkenny border have featured in the sales rooms and auction rooms this year.

Grain prices rise by over €10 per tonne 

Grain prices have hardened by around €10/t over the last few days on the back of reduced harvest forecasts across Ireland, Britain and the continent.

EU milk prices show increase for the first time since December 

EU average farm gate milk price increased by 1.0pc in June 2018 to 32.37 c/kg; this is the first upward move after consecutive decreases since December 2017.

Opinion: Politicians must tackle the flaws in high risk farm expansion policies 

We are certainly not out of the woods yet with the weather and suggestions that all the various farming sectors should now endeavour to help one another are to be commended. However, my first task is to sort out my own farm enterprise and get it back up and running again.

Earnings down at Glanbia, while Kerry reports revenue increase 

Revenue at Kerry Group rose 1.4pc year-on-year to €3.2bn in the six months to June 30, while half year results from Glanbia showed total group profit to be down €16.7m.

First trial alleging Monsanto's Roundup causes cancer goes to jury 

A trial in which a school groundskeeper alleged that his use of Monsanto's Roundup weed killer caused his terminal cancer will go to a California jury after lawyers for both sides delivered their closing arguments on Tuesday.

Demand for weanling bulls holding firm at 2017 prices 

Strong demand from both the export and home trade has got the weanling sale season off to a firm start, in particular for quality bulls, at prices on par with 2017.

Earnings fall at Glanbia, despite increase in revenue 

Earnings before interest, tax and amortisation at Glanbia fell by 7.3pc year-on-year in constant currency to €123.7m in the six months to June 30.

Revenue increases at Kerry, but currency headwinds impact results 

Revenue at Kerry Group rose 1.4pc year-on-year to €3.2bn in the six months to June 30.

EU wheat lower as heatwave fades, traders assess crop losses 

European wheat futures edged lower on Wednesday as the end of a heatwave offered relief to scorched crops while traders were also looking ahead to widely followed U.S. government grain forecasts later this week.

'Pig farmers are losing €3,000 a week and some will go to the wall in the coming months' 

Pig farmers will go to the wall in the coming months, according to the IFA Pigs Committee Chairman Tom Hogan, with some farmers currently losing €3,000 a week.

How this 180-cow farm is managing the effects of the drought 

The drought has cost us €16,000 in additional feed, we’re just hoping he milk price holds,” says Adrian Claffey a dairy farmer from Mount Temple, Co Westmeath.

Farmers beef up security in effort to thwart fodder thieves 

WICKLOW farmer Tom Stephenson has beefed up security on his farm by using old farm machinery to block gates in an effort to protect his straw and hay from being stolen.

Investigation ongoing into botulism incidence which caused the death of up to 20 cattle on Kildare farm 

A "through investigation" into  the possible link between poultry litter and a suspected incidence of botulism as the cause of the unexpected death of up to 20 beef animals on a Co Kildare farm last spring has been confirmed by the Department of Agriculture and Food.

Gardaí appeal for information after two adult falcons killed while trying to incubate eggs 

The National Parks and Wildlife Service in Co Louth are seeking the public’s help in relation to the unlawful killing of two Peregrine Falcons.

Euro hits 90p: Concern over no-deal Brexit sees Sterling slump 

Sterling has slumped half a percent against the euro to below 90 pence, its weakest since the middle of November in a selloff fueled by investor concern that Britain will crash out of the European Union without a trade deal..

Cupboards would run bare today if UK relied only on food it produces, says UK farmers union 

UK farmers have called on the Government to make food security a top priority on the day the country's cupboards would run bare if households relied only on British produce.

Beef prices steady as stability returns to the trade 

Stability seems to be returning to the trade and prices appear to have steadied at last. Bullock quotes range from €3.85-3.90/kg, with heifers on €3.95-4.00/kg.

IFA boss in Wexford says the county is the worst hit by drought 

While we have seen some rainfall over the past week, it's only a drop in the ocean compared to what farmers need to see themselves through some of the most difficult weather conditions in recent memory.

Lamb prices hold as factories chase supplies for Eid 

The factories have started to pursue supplies to fill contracts associated with the Muslim Eid al-Adha festival which starts on August 21.

Agricultural shows to get grants of up to €5,000 

Ireland’s 120 agricultural shows will be eligible for grants of up to €5,000 Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has announced.

Swiss army airlifts water to thirsty cows in drought-hit pastures 

Swiss army helicopters began airlifting water on Tuesday to thousands of thirsty cows who are suffering in a drought and heatwave that has hit much of Europe.

Forty sheep stolen from field in Co Down 

Police have issued an appeal for information after forty sheep were stolen from a field in Rathfriland, Co Down.

Global dairy prices unchanged after four consecutive falls 

Global dairy prices were flat at a fortnightly auction held on Wednesday after four consecutive falls.

Thousands expected at Borris ewe sale next week 

Borris Ewe Breeders Show & Sale will see ewe breeders around the country flocking to Carlow on Thursday, August 16

US-China trade War could threaten bull market 

Donald Trump’s escalating trade war with China and the EU is poised to put an end to the nearly decade-long Bull Run in equity markets, investors were warned today as HSBC became the latest global company to admit fears over tariffs.

Exclusive Enet to go it alone in post-SSE rural NBP broadband rollout 

Enet is to forge ahead with a plan to build out a State-subsidised rural broadband network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) without a new partner to replace the energy utility company SSE.

How Australia's meat industry plans to flood post-Brexit Britain with products banned in EU 

Australian meat industry leaders are heavily lobbying their government to put pressure on Britain to accept products currently banned under EU law after Brexit.

Farmer reverses tractor and 30ft trailer into the record books 

Paddy Kennedy broke records last weekend after reversing his tractor and 30ft trailer 30km to raise funds for three separate charities.

Livestock farmers urged to get 'proactive' on fodder 

Livestock farmers should maximise the potential of the recently announced fodder aid package by agreeing contracts with neighbouring tillage farmers for catch crops or quick rotation silage.

'Farmers are carrying the can - my feed bill went up €10,000 a month' 

A dairy farmer's feed bill has increased by €10,000 a month compared with this time last year due to the drought.

Leading Irish agri-tech business secures €118 in funding from European Investment Bank 

Belfast-based agri technology company Devenish Nutrition has secured €118 million in long-term funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to enable its research, development and growth plans.

Department warns live exporters over cattle transports in hot weather 

Live exporters have been told by the Department of Agriculture that transport of cattle to European countries experiencing high temperatures is prohibited.

China to launch emergency inspections on farms after swine flu outbreak 

China’s Liaoning province will increase inspections at pig farms and markets and strengthen the monitoring of hog transportation, after the nation’s first African swine fever case was reported there, local media Liaoning Daily reported on Monday.

Irish teacher Josephine is crowned Miss Macra 

There will be no hurling glory this year, but Kilkenny has secured a national prize with the International Miss Macra title.

Farmers' prayers could be answered with rain and cooler conditions on the cards for week ahead 

Irish farmers’ prayers are expected to be answered this week with the return of cooler conditions and rain on the cards

Once-off payment of €100 to be paid to sheep farmers as Creed unveils revamped EID scheme 

A once-off payment of €100 will be paid to farmers to phase in the mandatory electronic identification (EID) scheme for sheep, the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has announced.

Rags to riches story for abandoned Life of Reilly horse, transformed by racecourse manager 

Six years ago Sue Phelan, manager of Waterford and Tramore Racecourse, received a call that there was an abandoned pony in bad shape on one of the fields belonging to the racing venue.

Food sector fears Brexit bottlenecks trade threat 

Disruption to supply chains is one of the biggest risks facing the Irish food and drink industry, according to a new report from Bord Bia.

Profits jump at leading North poultry firm 

Northern Ireland's biggest companies have seen their profits increase by almost 80pc in 12 months.

Farmers across the pond turning to medieval security methods to protect their farms from thieves 

Farmers and rural residents are now turning to “medieval” security methods to secure their land from increasingly “brazen” thieves in 4×4 cars, according tot he Rural Crime Report said.

Northern Ireland farmers' livelihoods at risk as cost of rural crime hits £2.6m: report 

Rural crime in Northern Ireland is costing £2.6 million a year, a report warns.

Farmers face grim winter as silage prices increase by 31% 

Bale prices have rocketed by 19.96pc year-on-year as the shortage of animal feed intensifies, according to an in-depth analysis undertaken by DoneDeal.ie.

Food sector fears Brexit bottlenecks trade threat 

Disruption to supply chains is one of the biggest risks facing the Irish food and drink industry, according to a new report from Bord Bia.

'Rattles' on the rise - Heatwave has led to an increase in bacteria which can cause pneumonia in foals 

Horse breeders in both the thoroughbred and non-thoroughbred sectors are being warned of a possible increase in cases of Rhodococcus equi. Commonly known as 'rattles', it predominately affects young foals and causes pneumonia.

'I'm getting calls from farmers at midnight at their wit's end' - Farmers urged to seek help as stress levels rise 

Farm leaders are urging farmers to remember they are not alone as the drought takes its toll on their mental health.

Versatile Wexford farm guided up to €10,000/ac 

David Quinn is handling the sale of this 52ac roadside tillage and grass farm at Ballyrahan located about 2km from Gorey in Co Wexford.

Merchants taking a lead in importing high quality straw 

I recently spoke at an IFA county executive meeting with my headline topic being how to stretch scarce fodder supplies and alternative feed options this winter.

Fourth-generation California dairy farmer with 2,300 cows on trade war woes 

Stephen Mancebo, a fourth-generation California dairy farmer with 2,300 cows, has battled ups and downs in his temperamental industry for a quarter-century only to find himself a casualty of a U.S trade war with one of his biggest customers - Mexico.

Warning as farmers helping each other out with work poses potential insurance liability 

Although the culture of helping out and trading labour between farmers is dying out in many parts of the country, there are times when a helping hand from family members or neighbours carries with it a greater burden for the farmer in terms of liability and insurance than most realise.

Germany seeks tax deal for farmers 

Germany is waiting for the European Commission to rule on whether its farmers can get income tax relief to help offset the effects of drought on this year's harvest, weekly magazine 'WirtschaftsWoche' has reported, citing an unidentified German agriculture ministry spokeswoman.

How forestry can keep you in farming 

Last year was a difficult year for farming. This year is even more challenging. As I am writing this, drought conditions are putting farmers under severe pressure. The last thing on your mind is making a forestry grant application.

South Leinster: 'The big dairy men are buying extra land as a fodder buffer' 

South Leinster continues to be the strongest part of the country for land sales and even with the €58,000/ac sale of a farm in Cork it still outperformed its nearest rival, Munster, by more than €1.3m in money generated by land sales.

Trump administration lifts GMO crop ban for US wildlife refuges 

The Trump administration has rescinded an Obama-era ban on the use of pesticides linked to declining bee populations and the cultivation of genetically modified crops in dozens of national wildlife refuges where farming is permitted.

'Maybe we will be forced to cut back our stocking rates' - How one farmer is coping with the drought 

Farmers may have to pant on through this heatwave into September, and even then it will take a deluge followed by a lot of good rainfalls to get the ground back in a proper condition for farming, according to veteran dairy man John Robinson.

Land divide - The gap in land prices between the east and west of the country continues to widen 

It is difficult to compare the price of land sold at auction in the first six months of 2018 with the same period of 2017, given the headline sale of 101ac of farmland in Cork city that made development land prices when it went for €5.8m or 58,000/ac at auction in June.

Top tips on keeping combines on the move this harvest 

Our record-breaking dry summer has meant combines have been asked to come into action much earlier than usual this year.

Meet ace Arklow dairy breeders Garry and John Hurley 

John Hurley traces the decisions which make his family famous back to an old man he met many years ago at the RDS in Dublin, a Mr Kelly from Drogheda.

Time to end the living hell of live exports 

Jim is about to saddle up when I drop by, having taken a spin through several counties to reach his rural neck of the woods. A drive is the only spin this farmer's son has time for these days, having lacerated the Department of Agriculture in this column last month for being all spin over substance when it comes to the grim reality behind the live export of Irish animals to foreign shores.

Four decades of keeping the shows on the road 

For more than four decades, working with agricultural shows has been a labour of love for Michael Hughes, who "enjoyed every minute" of his lifetime of interaction with rural communities across the country.

Mike Brady: Our most successful farmers don't wallow but see opportunity in crisis 

The are many different types of people in the world today. In fact, we are groomed from the day we are born to be the person we grow into being later on in life.

Landmark sale - Home and farm of famous horse trainer and top chocolatier sells for €1.83m 

Landscape Stud on 91ac near the village of Kilsheelan in South Tipperary sold at auction last week making €1.83m surpassing it guide by €480,000.

Agri-culture: the artists drawing inspiration from farming 

'Women have always been working hard in the background of the farming world and the art world but in recent times they have more of a voice."

She loved her animals: nephew’s tribute at inquest into death of cattle breeder crushed by cow 

The nephew of a Co Armagh cattle breeder killed by a cow paid tribute to a "special lady" after her inquest yesterday.

Tillage farmers to be offered financial incentives to produce fodder as crisis looms 

A new incentive measure has been announced for tillage farmers to produce additional feed this Autumn through a financial commitment of up to €2.75 million.

Claas cuts a swathe through world silage-making record 

Claas has set a new world record for the amount of silage mown in an eight hour period in Colorado in the US.

Three-year project to manage deer population in Wicklow announced 

A three-year plan to manage the deer population in Wicklow has been approved by the Department of Agriculture, along with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaelteacht.

The rain has arrived but the drought is far from over 

I would be tempted to say that many felt like cracking open a bottle of something after recent rains.

Watch: 'Dirty farmers that let it grow should be shot' - Ted Walsh on this noxious weed 

The #AskTed section of RTE's racing coverage has provided some very light-hearted moments in recent years but Ted Walsh got very excited over a question about the spread of ragwort.

Westmeath holding gets one bid 

In Westmeath a 77ac farm at Corbally near Castlepollard was withdrawn from auction recently after receiving one bid of €400,000.

'Creating a last minute panic is a safety risk': Contractors demand slurry spreading extension 

Michael Gove “incredibly confident” of a Brexit deal and UK food supply 

The UK Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said that he is “incredibly confident” of the UK striking a deal on Brexit in March.

Farmers with highest payments are not the most productive - INHFA 

INHFA president Colm O'Donnell has described as a "myth" the assertion that applicants with the highest per hectare entitlements under the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) are the most productive farmers.

Scheme paves the way for Cork solar farms 

The head of the Cork-based company planning to build a dozen solar farms across the county, including seven across the north and mid-Cork regions, has said he anticipated the first would-be fully operational by the end of next year.

Water quality major issue for dairy sector 

The environment is the most serious long-term challenge facing the dairy industry, Arrabawn CEO Conor Ryan has warned.

Heatwave ravages European fields, sending wheat prices soaring 

Searing heat has devastated wheat fields across northern Europe while a combination of dry conditions and extreme rain in the Black Sea have hit output estimates, with prices soaring on fears of further crop damage.

Farmers hit by the drought to get EU pay early 

The European Commission has confirmed farmers will be able to receive EU farm payments in advance and will be granted more flexibility to use land that would normally not be used for production, in order to feed their animals.

Dairy farmers face an €800m financial hit this year - ICMSA 

Dairy farmers are facing an €800m financial hit this year, the ICMSA has said.

EU confirms advance in farm payments as drought grips Europe 

Farmers will be able to receive their direct and rural development payments in advance and will be granted more flexibility to use land that would normally not be used for production, in order to feed their animals.

Land Prices: 'I am aware of 1,000 acres of tillage that's being turned to grassland' 

North Leinster has had what might be called a challenging start to the year: all the indicators show a downward trend with the amount of land sold at auction down by 11pc. Money generated by auction sales is down by 30pc and the per acre price of land is back by 21pc on the same time last year.

EU touts jump in soybean imports from U.S. 

EU soybean imports from the United States almost quadrupled early in the new marketing year, the European Union said, a week after it struck a deal with U.S. President Donald Trump to avert a trade row, as buyers responded to a sharp drop in prices.

Big issues in the potato sector are coming home to roost this summer 

I began last month's article by quoting Warren Buffet and his explanation that systemic weaknesses become more apparent during times of trouble (or as he said, 'only when the tide goes out do you discover who has been swimming naked').

Meat processors hit back at 'profiteering' claims 

Meat processors have hit back at accusations that factories have engaged in profiteering by slashing cattle prices during the drought.

Explainer: South Africa sets path to seize white farmers' land 

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) is forging ahead with plans to change the constitution to allow the expropriation of land without compensation.

FBD chief awaits Fairfax move on its stake 

Fairfax may seek a sweetened deal to convert its FBD bond into shares while foregoing interest, CEO Fiona Muldoon has indicated.

It's official: July was an 'absolute drought' for most 

The heatwave and drought conditions experienced across most of the country have been made official by Met Éireann statistics for July.

Farmers at 'crisis point' call for urgent help from minister to boost fodder 

Farmers are reaching "crisis point" due to drought conditions and have called on Agriculture Minister Michael Creed to urgently introduce initiatives to boost fodder supplies in order to avoid another "disastrous" winter for the industry.

Farm accident victim (90) was 'absolute gent' 

The community of Bunaghara in Listowel are coming to terms with the shock accident which recently claimed the life of 90-year-old Tom O'Sullivan after he was struck by a tractor on the family farm.

Relief as lamb prices begin to bounce back 

The sheep farmers of Ireland truly are a different breed. Not unlike the Limerick hurlers against Cork on Sunday, they have made a huge turnaround. They have succeeded over the weekend where their cattle farming cousins have failed.

Dairy cows feed requirement could surge by 75pc this year 

Teagasc has forecast that the feed requirement of dairy cows could surge by a staggering 75pc this year.

IFA call for EID postponement as 'derisory' €50 offer slammed 

The IFA has warned that the introduction of EID could destroy the fragile store lamb trade and has called on the Department of Agriculture to postpone the measure.

Skin cancer campaign to target farmers as figures reveal Ireland has the highest mortality rate in Europe 

Worrying figures reveal Ireland has the highest mortality rate for melanoma in Europe, with more men dying from this disease than women

Cattle buyers seize opportunity to tighten the screw on farmers 

It would be really nice if I could tie the classic hurling that was played over the weekend to some positive comments about the direction of factory cattle prices - but I can't.

Australia’s drought is like a cancer eating away at farms and families 

From ground level, Australia's drought looks like a featureless, brown dustbowl, but from the air it transforms into an artistry of colour and texture as the land cracks under a blazing sun.

VIDEO: Lough Ree RNLI rescue a cow stuck in the mud south of Athlone 

Lough Ree RNLI were involved in the rescue of a cow near Athlone yesterday morning.

FBD sees profits rise to €18m in first half of 2018 

Despite adverse weather and challenging investment returns FBD Holdings CEO Fiona Muldoon said the company delivered a 'healthy profit' of €18m for the first half of the year.

'Absolute' drought is over but much more rainfall needed on farms 

Grass growth back on track in the west after 50mm of rain in past week

Dairygold to host fodder budgeting workshops across Munster 

In response to the current grass shortages and potential for future fodder deficits, Dairygold will hold a series of fodder budgeting workshops over the coming weeks to help Members manage their feed over the coming weeks and months.

Supervalu announces financial support for Irish vegetable growers 

Supervalu has announced that it has agreed financial support for Irish vegetable growers to ease drought crisis.

High Court orders fresh elections for Irish Countrywomen's Association 

The High Court has ruled that the Irish Country Women's Association (ICA) must hold fresh elections for positions on its national executive within the next two months. 

Entries now open for 2018 Farmer of the Year awards 

Entries are now open for the Zurich Farm Insurance Farming Independent Farmer of the Year Awards.

Rural businesses struggling to cope with 'deplorable' broadband 

The internet speed in Co Roscommon is so poor "it's like being transported back to the 1990s", according to locals.

Land worth €1.6m donated by farmer to Traveller group set to be turned in to community farm 

Prime farm land worth €1.6 million donated by a farmer to a local Travellers’ development group over a decade ago is now being converted in to a community farm with the aim of reconnecting the Travelling population with the land.

Dairy farmers face 60pc fall in net margins as winter and summer weather impact 2018 farm incomes 

The average dairy net margin in 2018 could be down by 60pc, new figures from Teagsc show, with the average dairy farm income could fall to €45,000.

Meath pastureland goes for €585,000 at auction 

Spiddal is a place name more associated with Galway than Meath but as place names go it has a lot of cousins.

Bank of Ireland encouraging farmers with ACC loans to switch lenders 

Bank of Ireland is actively encouraging farmers with ACC loans to switch lenders

Greencore reports revenue of €717m in three months 

Greencore, the Dublin-based food group and the world's largest sandwich maker, has reported a 0.5pc increase in revenue to £639.6m (€717m) in the three months to 29 June.

Land boom in Leinster but sales slump in west 

Land prices have increased by 8pc nationally in the first six months of the year on the back of increased activity by dairy farmers and stud farm owners.

German farmers must wait for harvest report before finding out if they will receive €1bn in drought aid 

German farmers intensified calls for around €1bn in special aid on Tuesday after crop damage from a drought and heatwave, but Berlin said it would wait for an August harvest report before making a decision.

Pig farmers losing up to €8 per animal 

Pig farmers are losing up to €8 per finished animal at the moment, with the average fattening unit suffering losses of €3,500 per week, the IFA claimed this week.

Irish beef launches itself on giant Chinese online market worth over three billion 

Irish beef opened itself to a market worth €3.75m market by launching on two of China’s largest online platforms.

Farmers face rising temperatures again this Bank Holiday weekend 

The unsettled weather is expected to continue until the weekend, when temperatures will rise once again.

Teagasc issue key budget and management advice to help farmers bridge the fodder gap 

With the average deficit in silage stocks on Irish farms estimated to be 28pc of total fodder requirements and many farms having deficits of greater than 40pc requirements, the Teagasc Fodder InterAgecy group have issued advice to farmers on how to bridge the fodder gap and take advantage of recent rains.

Limousin breeders turn out in force at popular Ulster Show 

The glorious weather may have broken, but it did not stop thousands of exhibitors and spectators attending the Randox Antrim Show at the weekend.

World's leading agriculture ministers seek an end to protectionism in global food trade 

Agriculture ministers from the G20 countries criticised protectionism in a joint statement on Saturday, and vowed to reform World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, but did not detail what steps they would take to improve the food trade system.

115,000 country homes lose out on broadband as companies split 

More than 100,000 rural homes are to be the first casualties in the break-up of the consortium which had planned to supply high-speed broadband to nine towns across Ireland.

Torch heifer lights up Meath sale at €3,750 

A potential ninth generation of VG/EX from the renowned Torch family in the Monamore Herd, Oldrose Rambo Torch topped the trade at the dairy sale from the Oldrose herd held in conjunction with the IHFA National Open Day on the Collins family farm in Ardcath, Co Meath.

Lots of action at auction for upland farm in Tipperary 

A 94ac upland farm at Rossaguile, about 4km from the north Tipperary town of Newport sold in lots last week during and after auction. A 46ac lot of which over 7ac was in forestry sold for €292,000 while a 19ac parcel sold for €210,000.

'Outrageously unfair' - Only a matter of time before Fair Deal scheme will be challenged in the courts say ICSA 

Farmer representatives have warned that the fair deal scheme will be challenged in the courts unless changes are made.

West Clare farmer pleads guilty to animal welfare charges 

A 65-year-old west Clare farmer, who has already pleaded guilty to dumping 12 animal carcasses over 300 ft high Cliffs, has now pleaded guilty to 20 sample animal welfare charges.

Cattle blamed as swimming banned at popular Sligo beach 

Sligo county council recently issued a temporary ‘ban’ on bathing for Mullaghmore beach due to the presence of harmful bacteria in the water.

Forage crops a solid option for finishing lambs 

With no sign of any big amount of rain in the near future, grass supply remains almost non-existent in the southern part of the country. Having to feed meal to most of the lambs is adding a big cost to the primary producer.

How reliant are Irish farms on direct payments? 

In 2017 average total payment received was €17,659 per farm and this accounted for 56pc of average farm income.

Milk yields back by over 2pc on average 

The feeding of unprecedented volumes of concentrates - which has seen some suppliers reporting demand running four times ahead of 2017 - is failing to maintain milk yields in most regions of the country.

Concern as key veterinary medicine product put under review 

Concern is mounting that a key veterinary medicine product may be removed from the market over concerns regarding the risk to human health.

Countryfile Live to showcase best of TV show and British agriculture 

Countryfile Live, the four-day event outside Oxford, celebrates 30 years of the popular BBC TV show and takes place this week.

Irish beef exports to the UK up 7% in year to May 

Irish beef exports to the UK rose by 5,000 tonnes in the year to May (7pc) to total 80,400 tonnes, according to UK trade statistics.

Greenways helping to unlock the potential of farm sales 

It is remarkable how these cycling and walking Greenways are attracting huge numbers of tourists while proximity to these routes is being quoted in rural property sales as a distinct advantage.

German farmers seek 1 billion euros in drought aid: report 

Farmers in Germany need special aid of around 1 billion euros ($1.17 billion) because of damage to harvests caused by drought and heatwave, the head of German farming association DBV said on Monday.

Kepak to acquire huge UK meat processing assets as Brexit hedge 

Irish meat processor Kepak has announced it has reached agreement with Boparan Holdings, Limited, to acquire the UK business and assets of 2 Sisters Red Meat, Limited, for an undisclosed sum.

Dry weather hits milk production across Europe. Could boost milk prices 

Due to unfavourable weather conditions, the expected increase in EU milk production this year has been lower than anticipated.

Kepak to acquire huge UK meat processing assets as Brexit hedge 

Irish meat processor Kepak has announced it has reached agreement with Boparan Holdings, Limited, to acquire the UK business and assets of 2 Sisters Red Meat, Limited, for an undisclosed sum.

Is your farm over borrowed compared to others? 

Irish farmers invested almost €835 million in 2017, an increase of 16% on the 2016 level, figures from Teagasc show, with the typical farm investing jus tshy of €10,000.

Farmers face 'perfect storm' on winter feed following hot weather 

Farmers are voicing growing concerns about the availability of winter fodder after the long, hot, dry spell.

A US rural lifestyle retailer that could corral rewards for investors 

Tractor Supply Company (TSC) is an example of a company named after the one thing it doesn't actually sell - that is, tractors.

Rural broadband project 'still on track' despite latest blow 

Broadband consortium Enet yesterday insisted its tender to bring high-speed service to rural Ireland is on track.

Over 70 pigs saved from slurry tank in Northern Ireland's largest ever animal rescue operation 

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) led a rescue team which saved over 72 pigs from a slurry tank on a farm in Co Antrim on Sunday.

No-deal Brexit would cause severe dairy shortages in UK 

Tighter supplies and significant price hikes for dairy staples such as butter, cheese and yoghurt have been forecast for Britain if the country crashes out of the EU next March.

Analysis: Extreme weather puts spotlight on viability of high-production farming model 

The latest Met Office forecasts suggest drought conditions will continue, exacerbating the fodder shortage.

Farming finance: Saving a fortune in the farm succession stakes 

Our practice recently ran a succession planning initiative, identifying cases where no obvious successor was emerging, and I was surprised at the number of farms owned by unmarried men or women, or widows or widowers with no children.

‘We could be at it until October’ - This year’s silage season could extend into late autumn 

Second-cut silage is few and far between after the drought. In a normal year, contractors would be up and at it once again at this stage of the summer as second cut thickens up, but at the moment only a handful of farmers around the country are ready for round two.

Building the perfect formula for Suffolk breeding success 

Thousands of sheep farmers aspire to breed the perfect flock, but few achieve their goal like Suffolk breeder Eamonn Duffy.

Kildare stud back on the market at €1.4m 

The sale of Millgrove Stud (pictured above) on 75ac at Rathangan in Co Kildare was postponed at auction last week and the property is now for sale by private treaty., writes Jim O'Brien.

Our farmyard is under daily siege from massive flocks of fearless crows 

The last month has been spent working tirelessly to minimise the effect of the drought on the farm and on the pocket.

Contractors digging deep as demand for wells soars 

Contractors are digging as deep as 300ft and 400ft to source water for farmers as the demand for second wells escalates in some of the bigger farms around Ireland.