Agri Food
‘No surprise’ at reports of Brexit food shortages and hard border
Politicians across Ireland have said a leaked report setting out British preparations for a hard border in the event of a no-deal Brexit comes as no surprise.
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No UK retailers demand all the requirements beef cattle must meet - ICOS
Peter Hynes: 'The question still remains unanswered as to how we will deal with dairy bull calves...
Beef talks to resume as prices remain under pressure
'The beef farmer is getting walloped' - Laois man who fronted McDonald's campaign on...
‘No surprise’ at reports of Brexit food shortages and hard border
Protecting your flock from marauding dogs
While dog attacks can occur at any time of year, attacks seem to be more prevalent during the lambing season when sheep and young lambs are most vulnerable.
Canada to pay dairy farmers hurt by EU trade deal as election nears
Canada will spend C$1.75 billion ($1.32 billion) over eight years to compensate dairy farmers facing greater competition due to free trade deals, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government said on Friday, attempting to satisfy an influential group of voters two months before a national election.
Ag fab Roses stay true to their farming roots
Young women with strong agricultural roots make up a strong cohort of contestants in this year's Rose of Tralee festival.
No UK retailers demand all the requirements beef cattle must meet - ICOS
No retailer in the UK requires cattle from Irish beef farmers to adhere to all of the criteria it is subject, ICOS has said.
Beef grid penalties cost farmers €33m last year – IFA Treasurer
Figures from IFA Treasurer and presidential candidate Tim Cullinan shows penalties imposed by ABP, Dawn Meats, Kepak and other factories cost farmers over €33m last year.
The search is on for Ireland's top farmers
Farmers who are outstanding in their fields can get the recognition they deserve and win a handsome cash prize by entering the 2019 Zurich Farm Insurance Farming Independent Farmer of the Year Awards.
'The reality is that if any beef farmers are to prosper, many more will have to exit the sector'
The time has come when suckler farmers must carefully examine their lack of profitability, and the absence of viable prospects going forward. Farmers have to face reality and realise that continuing to breed suckler cows will inevitably continue as a loss making enterprise. We must finally grasp the fact that for some to prosper many must go.
Deforestation in Brazil, vote in Argentina endanger EU-Mercosur pact
Brazil’s backsliding on Amazon conservation under right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro and a likely Peronist return to power in Argentina could delay or even derail ratification of an EU-Mercosur trade agreement that took two decades to negotiate.
WATCH: Farmers on high alert as brazen thieves steal quad bikes in Westmeath
Star of RTÉ’s Big Week On The Farm John Fagan has said there is a rural crime "epidemic" after his quad bike was stolen from his yard this week.
'Winter barley has many advantages but yield consistency isn't one of them'
We are still in the middle of the main grain harvest, and probably not the best time to reflect on the 2019 crop just yet.
Big farming opportunity in the heart of Mayo
Next month will see a rare opportunity to buy a large block of farmland in the heart of Mayo.
'The beef farmer is getting walloped' - Laois man who fronted McDonald's campaign on switching to dairy
Liam Delaney was the ideal man to be at the forefront of a high-profile TV advertising campaign for McDonald's burgers.
'Control of beef industry in hands of too few' - Supermac's boss
The control of the beef sector is in the hands of too few and needs more competition, according to Supermac’s CEO Pat McDonagh.
Michael Kelly: 'Farmers deserve a fair deal - and so does rural Ireland'
On a train journey through the midlands I was surrounded by fields of grazing cattle on either side. Having grown up in rural Ireland, it was a comfortingly familiar sight. As we made our way, a debate was raging on the radio about the price of beef and the farmers' protests at processing plants.
John Deere cuts earnings forecast as bad weather and trade war hits farm machinery sales
Deere & Co has cut its earnings forecast and announced a review of costs after quarterly profits yet again missed Wall Street's estimates, hurt by bad weather and the US-China trade war that have depressed sales of its farm machines.
Aurivo announces a price cut for July milk supplies
Aurivo has announced a cut to its milk price for July supplies, blaming deteriorating butter returns for the cut.
Anger over hundreds farmers TAMS applications turned down
The decision by the Agriculture Minister, Michael Creed to turn down approximately 600 TAMS applications in its latest tranche has been described as as very disappointing, by IFA Rural Development Chairman, Joe Brady.
History check finds issues in half of used UK imports
Half the used UK imports whose history was checked by potential buyers had warnings and alerts attached, startling new figures show.
New global heat record set in July
July was the hottest month measured on Earth since records began in 1880, meteorologists have said.
'I went to college to study Performing Arts but I diverted, and I ended up doing my final thesis in Irish dairying and the EU'
With a CAO journey that started with Performing Arts and ended in a thesis on farming and a degree in Psychology and Irish Studies, Grace Vaughan is testament to how flexible the higher education system can be.
Beef talks still 'a delicate situation'
South West Beef Plan Movement Chairperson Dermot O'Brien said he is hopeful talks can resume with Meat Industry Ireland in the coming days, and he feels "progress has been made" after marathon talks drew to a close on Tuesday morning between the Movement, Meat Industry Ireland, Department of Agriculture officials, and representatives of other farming bodies.
EU wheat prices rise as weaker euro boosts export outlook
Euronext wheat futures were higher on Thursday, lifted partly by a weaker euro which boosted the outlook for exports with a large crop this year now largely harvested.
Growing menace - landowners forced to step up war on ragwort as poisonous weed spreads
The noxious weed ragwort is rearing its bright yellow head in greater numbers this year.
Kerry Co-op shareholders disappointed that new board will not be elected
Farmers who hold shares in Kerry Co-op have voiced concerns that a new board of directors will not be elected after its advisory committee elections take place in October.
30 bee species face extinction despite €1bn green scheme
Some 30 species of bees face extinction in Ireland despite the Government spending €1bn on a scheme designed to increase biodiversity, improve water quality and combat climate change.
John Fagan: 'A message for the Minister: get on the blower to Beijing - the Chinese have gone mad for lamb!'
The most profitable sheep farmers are the ones who breed their own replacement lambs and don't have to buy in any from elsewhere.
Large turnout for livestock classes at Tullamore Show
A huge entry of nearly 1,000 animals competed in 13 livestock classes at the largest-ever FBD National Livestock Show at Butterfield Estate, Tullamore on Sunday where some of the best of the dairy and beef breeds in Europe was showcased.
Bidders pile in to drive price of small Meath land parcel to €27,000/acre
There is a strong demand for small plots of good Meath land, which is selling for an average of €10,000 to €11,000/ac says auctioneer Aidan Heffernan of Sherry Fitzgerald Royal, Trim.
Farmers to pay 'nominal' charge to weigh cattle at factories
Farmers will pay a nominal charge for factories to provide a lairage weighing service for live cattle, according to a draft document from the ongoing beef discussions between farming organisation and Meat Industry Ireland.
How renewable energy could make your farm more efficient and save you money
Renewable energy is here to stay and increasing numbers of Irish farmers are already embracing this technology as a way to reduce running costs, improve efficiency and make their farm more sustainable.
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Points for dairy and food science courses drop
The CAO points required to study Agricultural Science courses have dropped for most universities and third level institutions, with UCD seeing a 26 point decrease in study requirements for its course.
'Theft of electric fences could have caused serious accidents'
Farmers say serious accidents could have been caused following the theft of a number of electric fences last week in the Tarbert area of Co Kerry that left livestock and horses free to roam onto public roads.
BEAM scheme set to open to applications
The Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) will open for applications from Monday, August 19.
Sheep herded along Whitehall by anti-Brexit campaigners
A flock of sheep was herded along Whitehall on Thursday by campaigners who say a no-deal Brexit could force half of UK farms out of business.
Leaving hay bales in the fields is a lost opportunity
Driving through any part of the country over the past six weeks, it is obvious how much hay has been made.
NI remaining in the single market looks most feasible compromise - ICMSA
AN 'All-Ireland agri backstop' is worth exploring, but there are likely to be political issues that make the idea a non-runner, says ICMSA president Pat McCormack.
Co-op boards 'not open and welcoming' to the next generation of farmers
Boardroom politics and 'a wait your turn young fella' attitude are some of the reasons young people cited for putting them off getting involved in co-operative boards, according to a new report.
'Grassy Naul' bonanza for GAA with pitch export plan
Pitches from the GAA's farm in north county Dublin could be in use at major sports stadiums across Europe in the coming years.
Marts still feeling the aftershock of beef protests
I asked Stephen Hannon of Ballymote to gaze into his mart crystal ball over the weekend.
Beef farmers won't rule out further protests with more price cuts expected
Beef farmers are bracing for further cuts to their income, as some meat factories plan to slash the price offered by as much as €20-a-head of cattle.
Beef prices set to fall further as protest sees kill fall almost 60pc
The beef kill was down some 57pc on throughput seen prior to last week's protests, according to latest figures from the Department of Agriculture.
Alternative Brexit proposals will be given consideration - Phil Hogan
Ireland’s European Commissioner Phil Hogan has said that any alternative proposals from the UK on its future relationship with the EU will be given “appropriate consideration”.
'No easy answers' says Creed as no-deal Brexit could leave cross border agri trade at a standstill
The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has said there are 'no easy answers' to avoiding huge disruption to the All Ireland agri economy in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
Dairy getting a 'free pass' on climate action claim INHFA
The INHFA has questioned why the polluter pays principle is not being applied in relation to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the national cattle herd, reports Declan O'Brien.
Kerry group announces milk price cut for July supplies
Kerry Group has cut its milk price for July supplies, the third major processor to announce a price cut.
Weanling prices back by €100-150/hd on 2018
Weanling prices are between €100-150/hd lower than last year on the back of the continuing downturn in the beef sector, Patsy Smith of Dowra Mart has claimed.
Darragh McCullough: 'Ulster's dairy farmers have marched themselves up the dead end of this no-deal Brexit madness'
Finally, a dose of reality is entering the Brexit debate. The report on BBC's Newsnight programme last week that up to 45,000 dairy cows would be culled in the North in the event of a hard Brexit was a long overdue wake-up call.
Richard Curran: Customers the only winners in beef battle
As farmers blockaded beef processing plants around the country, the ramifications started to move along the food chain, as it were.
No-deal Brexit would push up sheep prices but lead to welfare crisis for pig sector
A no-deal Brexit will cause serious difficulties for both the sheep and pig slaughtering sectors, as well as for the dairy industry.
'Architect of Brexit' gets a slice of £200,000 in CAP payments
The architect of Britain's Vote Leave Brexit campaign and the senior advisor to Boris Johnson has been labelled 'a hypocrite' after it emerged a farm he co-owns received more than £200,000 in EU subsidies.
Pictures: Not an inch of waste on €2m model farm
A period residence on c171ac at Ballyconlore and Coolnagloose, Inch, Gorey, Co Wexford, is being offered for sale at a guide price of €1.9m.
Intel calls for An Bord Pleanala to use rarely used powers against 'vexatious' appeal by farmer Thomas Reid
Intel Ireland has requested An Bord Pleanála to use rarely used powers to dismiss what it claims is the ‘vexatious’ appeal by farmer, Thomas Reid against its planned $4bn investment.
Beef Plan won't rule out further protests after 'disappointing talks'
The Beef Plan Movement has said it’s disappointed after talks with Meat Industry Ireland, and has not ruled out further protests.
Lakeland cuts its milk price by 0.5c/L
The Board of Lakeland Dairies met today and set a price for July milk, cutting it by 0.5c/L on its June price.
'Factories discriminate against livestock marts' - ICOS
The Irish Cooperative Society (ICOS) has hit out at meat processors over the Quality Payment System and what it called 'unreasonable restrictions' on animal movements.
Tyrone farmer faces jail for animal welfare offences, court told
A farmer has been warned he may face imprisonment for serious animal welfare issues, which a judge described as "grotesque and barbarous".
'Agri-backstop' needed to save dairy economy
The current all-Ireland dairy economy will be over if the UK pushes ahead with the threatened no-deal exit from the EU on October 31.
It's business as usual for now as the factory bosses size up their options
"A little rebellion every now and then is a good thing and is as necessary in the political world as storms are in the physical," was the verdict of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States.
Dairy leaders call for 'Island of Ireland' agriculture backstop
The current all-Ireland dairy economy will be over if the UK pushes ahead with the threatened no-deal exit from the EU on October 31.
Sheep numbers may be tightening
YESTERDAY saw a gradual return to normality after a very difficult seven days where a number of dual-purpose plants - factories that slaughter both sheep and cattle - either closed or were operating on reduced numbers due to the Beef Plan protest.
Review of grid expected as quality beef cattle kill collapses
THE quality of the national beef kill continues to decline, according to new data from the Department of Agriculture.
Watchdog's 'brass neck to terrorise farmers' as talks cannot discuss prices
Angry farmers have lashed out at the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), calling its rules and enforcement structure "a joke".
Glanbia under fire as it cuts base price to 29c/l
Glanbia's move to cut its milk price to under 30c/l has been described as 'unwarranted' and a 'knee-jerk' decision.
Margaret Donnelly: 'How can beef prices be addressed if we can't talk about them?'
As the saying goes: "When there's an elephant in the room, you can't pretend it isn't there and just discuss the ants."
Offaly farmers claim Bord na Móna is 'blocking' €120m wind farm
A group of Offaly farmers are demanding action over delays to a wind farm development on their lands.
Beef and dairy sectors 'vulnerable' to new diseases, warns academic
IRISH agriculture needs to reduce its reliance on cattle and future-proof the sector against the threat of new diseases and global economic upheaval, a leading academic has warned.
UK university bans beef from its campus over climate change
Beef burgers and bottled water will be consigned to history on the Goldsmiths, University of London campus from the start of the new academic year next month.
Organised crime gangs are becoming increasingly involved with the theft of cattle - UUP leader
Nearly 11,000 cattle have been reported either lost or stolen in Northern Ireland in just three years.
Glanbia cuts milk price due to 'weaker' dairy market
Glanbia will pay its Member milk suppliers 29.5c/L including VAT for July manufacturing milk supplies.
Serbia reports suspected African swine fever cases in backyard pigs
Serbia has reported four suspected outbreaks of African swine fever among backyard pigs, the Paris-based World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) said on Monday.
All eyes on Beef Plan negotiators as threat of further protests hang over talks
Farm organisations, Meat Industry Ireland, the Department and its agencies to will meet this afternoon to discuss the current beef situation.
Rural areas 'will be first to feel pain' from the harsh realities of Brexit
Brexit has begun to bite and rural Ireland will be the first to suffer the pain, a leading economist warned.
Met Éireann predicts a wet week ahead
It looks like summer may truly be over for another year, with Met Éireann forecasting a wet week ahead.
Thousands of bugs discovered in cows stomachs ‘could improve meat and dairy’
Meat and dairy products could be improved by thousands of bugs in cows’ stomachs that have been found by scientists using special DNA technology.
Farmers slam competition watchdog over warning to beef protesters
Farmers have heavily criticised the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) over its legal warning on protesting outside meat plants.
'Far too many of our older and younger generations are being killed by tractors'
Serious concerns have been expressed at the age profile of farm accident fatalities involving tractors by HSA Chief Executive Dr Sharon McGuinness.
Commission hits back at IFA over 'sweetheart deal' and 'sub-standard' beef import claims
The EU Commission has hit back at comments from the IFA that the agreement between the EU and the US on the importation of beef amounted a ‘sweetheart deal with President Trump’ and that sub-standard beef coming into the EU .
Holy cow: RNLI is called out to save unlucky animal that tumbled down cliff into the sea
A cow named 'Ghost' narrowly avoided becoming a sea phantom thanks to the prompt response of a courageous RNLI crew.
Toxic culture in the beef industry has to be stopped, warns Creed
The toxic relationship between farmers and the meat industry must come to an end, Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has warned.
The show must go on: Farmers flock to Tullamore despite beef dispute
Despite being caught up in a bitter dispute with processors over prices, hundreds of beef farmers from around the country were determined to keep the atmosphere of the Tullamore Show in Co Offaly alive.
'We cannot have it as business as usual' - Minister Creed says 'toxicity' between farmers and meat industry must end
Agricultural Minister Michael Creed has said the ‘toxicity’ between farmers and the meat industry must come to an end.
For peat's sake: Where now for Bord na Móna in a green Ireland?
With plans for new peat-fired stations having been blocked and the Government's Climate Action Plan imposing ever-tighter environmental regulations, what does the future now hold for Bord na Móna?
Margaret Donnelly: 'Farmers need to come together to win this beef battle'
When you see beef farmers protesting outside a meat factory on a bank holiday weekend Saturday night, you have to admire their commitment and resolve to better their situation.
'Diversifying will create jobs for beef farmers and keep people in rural Ireland'
Bronagh O Rourke is only just getting used to being called a farmer.
Hopes rise for progress in beef dispute
Agriculture Minister Michael Creed is confident of making progress in the dispute between farmers and beef processors as both sides prepare to meet tomorrow.
Cattle entries up 20pc as Tullamore show defies the beef gloom
Up to 60,000 rural and urban dwellers alike are expected to attend the country's premier livestock show in Tullamore today.
Sheep still a vital enterprise for upland areas and the west
The latest sheep census report confirms the importance of the sheep sector for Irish farming.
Switching to limited company status remains the solid option for financing land purchases
In my time advising farmers I have encountered many occasions where I'm faced with the difficult task of making a judgement call on whether my client sitting in front of me has the wherewithal to buy a piece of land that he would dearly love to get his hands on.
Crop invaders: China's small farmers struggle to defeat armyworm
Yan Wenliu leans on the side of his cart as he prepares to leave his sugarcane field in Southwest China, bewildered by the formidable new pest that has ambushed his crops this year.
Watchdog claims closing meat factories may be ruled an anti-competition boycott to force up prices
The Beef Plan Movement last night suspended its protests in the face of threatened legal action and after agreeing to enter talks with the meat factories.
Ciaran Moran: 'Support from 'abandoned' rural areas pouring in'
'We have nothing to lose at this stage" is a common response from farmers when asked why they took to the streets in recent days. But returns from beef farming have not all of a sudden gone down the tubes.
'If farmers cannot survive, then what kind of rural Ireland will you be left with?'
It began outside a west Cork beef processing plant on a balmy Sunday evening in late July with just 10 people.
Fianna Fáil wants EU to probe meat industry profits as it backs actions
Fianna Fáil wants the European Commission to investigate the beef industry "from the farm to the table" to see who is making the most profits.
Beef Plan Movement suspend protests over meat prices and agree to talks
The Beef Plan Movement has suspended protests at meat factories around the country and will engage in talks next week.
Deadly disease found in Irish hares and rabbits – public asked to report any sightings
A disease fatal to rabbits and hares, but of no risk to humans, has been confirmed in the wild in Ireland for the first time.
Bayer mediator says no $8 billion Roundup settlement discussed despite speculation
Bayer AG has not offered to pay billions of dollars to settle claims in the United States related to the Roundup herbicide, mediator Ken Feinberg said, after a report of such a settlement had driven shares as much as 11% higher.
Isolating the cause of pump breakdowns
I was recently asked to repair a slurry tanker which had a recurring problem of passing slurry through the pump when the tanker got full.
A dedicated follower of the finest Herefords
Although a lifelong career in banking took him to many corners of the country, Henry Dudley's thoughts were never too far from his native Tipperary and Hereford cattle.
French farmers damage more offices of Macron MPs over trade deals
French farmers angered by EU trade deals with Canada and Mercosur have protested by damaging offices belonging to lawmakers from President Emmanuel Macron’s party, as public discontent against the government shows no sign of abating.
EU fights 'urgent challenge' of African swine fever spread
The European Union faces an urgent challenge in tackling an outbreak of African swine fever which threatens Bulgaria’s pig breeding industry, a Commission spokeswoman said on Thursday.
Phenomenal grass growth brings a different set of management challenges for Donegal sheep farmer
Phenomenal grass growth is the main news from the Duffy farm on the Fanad Peninsula in north Donegal this summer.
Sheep farmer's Hero stallion conquers RDS
County Mayo sheep farmer Sean Barker had never attended the Dublin Horse Show prior to 2008 when his Irish Draught stallion Gortfree Hero first made his entrance into the showing world.
There will be disruption even in orderly Brexit scenario - Kerry Group CEO
There will be short term disruption even in the event of an orderly Brexit, Kerry Group CEO Edmond Scanlon has said.
'Food Wise report is big on aspiration but its lack of detail will dismay environmentalists'
'Steps to Success 2019' is the fourth update on the Food Wise 2025 plan that sets out a road-map for the agri-food sector. Effectively, it is a report on a report, complete with lots of smiling farm families and bucolic landscapes, and is correspondingly light on actual figures.
Farmers set to face legal action as deadline passes for Beef Plan protests to end
The beef industry has been plunged into deepening crisis with hundreds of jobs on the line and the threat of a court battle against protesting farmers.
Margaret Donnelly: 'Battle over beef prices goes back almost two decades'
Over the past 13 days, thousands of beef farmers and their families have stood outside meat factory gates, as the Beef Plan movement's protests gained momentum and force.
'Meat Industry Ireland is only a mudguard for Larry Goodman and other beef barons'
IFA Presidential candidate and National Treasurer Tim Cullinan has reacted furiously to the threat of court action by Meat Industry Ireland (MII) against farmers engaged in the current beef protests.
'Claims that 45,000 cows will be culled in a no deal Brexit are scare tactics' - Ulster Farmers Union
Ulster Farmers Union has said that claims that 45,000 cows will be culled in a no deal Brexit scenario are “scare tactics”.
Beef Plan won't call off protests for talks, as factories look for 'legal remedy' to stop pickets
Meat Industry Ireland has said its members have been left with no choice other than to seek legal remedy in an effort to prevent Beef Plan from causing further damage to the Irish beef industry.
Calls for Tullamore Show to withdraw invite to Minister Creed
Members of the Beef Plan Movement are calling on the organisers of the Tullamore Show to withdraw its invite to the Minister for Agriculture to open the show.
Eating less meat and farming with fewer chemicals needed to curb global warming - UN report
The world must "look after the land" to help tackle climate change, experts warn as rising temperatures put food supplies at risk.
Weather warning in place for 18 counties as we're told to brace ourselves for flooding and up to 40mm of rain
A RAINFALL warning is in place for 18 counties amid warnings that up to 40mm of rain is expected.
Kerry Group revises guidance for the year
Kerry Group has said its earning per share growth for this year will be between 7pc- 9pc, having previously forecast growth of between 6pc-10pc.
Creed 'reaches out' to Beef Plan Movement to enter talks
Following intense pressure the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has contacted the Beef Plan Movement to enter into talks a move which he claims has been rejected.
Ann Fitzgerald: 'There's a lot more to the yellow peril of ragwort than meets the eye'
Pulling ragwort as a means of control is a time-honoured, universally-despised, yet curiously satisfying, activity at this time of year.
Are we witnessing the beginning of the end for traditional beef farming?
Over 30 years ago, I attended a second-year economics lecture as part of my Bachelor in Agricultural Science degree at University College Dublin. It was delivered by the Late Professor Seamus Sheehy.
Number of herds with TB still rising but reactor rate has declined
The proportion of cattle herds testing positive for TB has increased marginally compared to 2018, despite the serious efforts being made to eradicate the disease.
Brazil deforestation climbs 67% through July as government attacks data
Deforestation in Brazil’s rainforest has jumped around 67% in the first seven months of the year, according to preliminary data from Brazil’s space research agency, which the government has attacked as misleading and harmful to the national interest.
Why slurry can deliver an extra €120/ac for tillage farmers on fertiliser savings and higher yields
Harvest yields are yet again proving the benefit of applying organic fertiliser to land. Some of that benefit may be coming from it's organic content but I suspect that much of it is coming from its nutrient content and rich microbiology.
It began as WhatsApp groups with a beef - and is now causing chaos in beef industry
What is the Beef Plan Movement?
Meat factories forced to temporarily lay off staff due to Beef Plan 'blockades'
A number of meat factories have been forced to lay off staff temporarily as the Beef Plan protest enters its 12th day.
Post-auction deal sees Longford holding sell at €5,500 per acre
The land auction scene has been busy for the last few weeks with some notable sales throughout the country.
'€4/kg will just about pay the bills but we have no margin out of that'
Eight farmers stood at the bridge at the entrance to Meadow Meats in Rathdowney at 7.30pm last Saturday night.
Second-generation hybrid is pure Claas - the latest Lexion Synflow Hybrid represents an exciting evolution of the combine harvester
Originally introduced in 1995, the Claas Lexion combine revolutionised the way that arable crops are harvested and became the benchmark for cost efficient, high output harvesting of cereals and other crops. There was big news in the world of harvesting this week as now, 24 years later, Claas has announced the introduction of a completely new second generation version of its Lexion Hybrid...
Factories forced to lay off staff as Beef Plan protests continue
A number of meat factories have been forced to lay off staff temporarily as the Beef Plan protest enters its 12th day.
Britain faces food shortages in no-deal Brexit scenario, industry body says
Britain will experience shortages of some fresh foods for weeks or even months if a disorderly no-deal Brexit leaves perishable produce rotting in lorries at ports, Britain’s food and drink lobby warned on Wednesday.
'Somebody is making money out of the beef sector and it certainly isn’t the farmer'
As the Beef Plan protests continue into a second week at factories around the country, the group has said it will mobilise more protests unit it says there is a meaningful proposal to give farmers a fair share of the retail margin of beef.
Beef Plan protests see beef kill shrink by 16pc
The national beef kill fell by 16pc last week as ongoing protests by the Beef Plan Movement caused disruption to meat plants.
Global dairy prices fall as supply ramps up
Global dairy prices fell at a fortnightly auction, largely reversing a previous lift, and dragged down by rising supply.
Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM) key details:
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed T.D. recently announced details of the Beef Exceptional Aid Measure (BEAM).
Beef plan protests: Tensions high at Rathkeale plant protest
TENSIONS are rising at beef factories across the country, including in nearby Rathkeale, as hundreds of protesters continue the campaign for meat factories to pay better prices to beef farmers.
EU wheat harvest well advanced as heatwave enabled rapid work
The summer heatwave has enabled west Europe’s farmers make rapid progress with wheat harvesting, but rain in recent days has slowed progress in some countries, experts said on Wednesday.
UK meat processors say 'panic' gripping industry as EU buyers reduce orders
British meat processors have said a sense of panic is now gripping the UK meat industry amid claims the UK Government is frighting continental buyers with uncompromising threats of a no-deal Brexit.
Soaring insurance costs forcing agri-tourism businesses to shut up shop
Soaring insurance premiums are leading to the closure of agri-tourism businesses and forcing country shows and festivals to look for public support to finance their insurance cover.
Mart prices start to contract sharply as uncertainty grips the trade
There isn't any good news on the mart front this week.
The bottom line: if prices remain below €5/kg we will make no money this year
All lambs are now weaned and divided into three main groups. Lambs that are over 38kg are in one group - these should finish over the next month and they are mostly wether lambs.
'Small farmers won't survive... we can't all switch to dairying'
Storm Powell travelled to Kilkenny Mart to hear farmers' views on the Climate Change Advisory Council's proposal to reduce cattle numbers, the ongoing beef protests and Brexit
Claims of 'illegal blockades' as beef prices dispute escalates
Meat factories have accused the Beef Plan Movement of "illegal blockades" as tensions escalate over protests which have brought the industry to a halt in many areas.
Straw trade hit by beef price collapse
Straw prices have eased back by €5-6/bale for 4x4 bales as slower demand from beef farmers has hit the trade.
Sligo breeder scores on the double at Suffolk show
Topping both the honours in the show ring and the prices in the sales ring added up to a very successful outing for a well-known West of Ireland breeder at the inaugural Premier Show and Sale of the Irish Suffolk Sheep Society at Roscrea Mart on Saturday.
Why I’m in dread of being side-wiped on our roads this summer
I’M in dread of being side swiped or ‘nose wiped’ on the road this summer.
Tense scenes erupt at Dawn Meats as farmers claim they were told to move away from factory entrance gates
Tense scenes have erupted outside the Dawn Meats plant in Co Kilkenny after as farmers’ claim they were told to move away from factory entrance gates.
Land sales slump on back of beef crisis and Brexit uncertainty
Land sales at auction have slumped in the first six months of the year due to Brexit uncertainty and the impact of the beef crisis.
John Joyce: 'We have lost control of our beef industry'
THERE'S no getting away from the debate about the current state of our industry.
Boortmalt incident leads to contract fears for barley growers
There is growing unease among tillage farmers that the tonnage of malting barley processed by Boortmalt in Athy this harvest could be slashed following a major incident at the Kildare site.
Beef protests escalate but IFA non-committal on support
Farmers from the Beef Plan Movement are picketing outside over 20 meat factories today as their protest enters a second week.
Department issues Bluetongue alert after 'huge' rise in cattle imports
A small number of cattle importers and farmers risk introducing the animal disease Bluetongue into the national herd by continuing to purchase and ship cattle from continental Europe during the summer, the Department of Agriculture has claimed.
Lamb Prices: Are we seeing the start of a price rally?
As we went to press yesterday there were unconfirmed reports that ICM was now paying 40c/kg above their base price of €4.60/kg to individuals and producer groups. If true this means the top of the market is now at €5.00/kg.
It's very quiet on the western front
The auction scene in Connacht Ulster is always quieter than the rest of the country with private treaty being by far the favoured route for land sales in this region.
Land volumes down, prices up in north Leinster
In normal times the land market in North Leinster has always been buoyant with strong sales and much land changing hands in Meath Westmeath and Louth. Prices generally reflect their proximity to the Greater Dublin Area, the good old GDA.
Munster bucks national trend with sales up 21pc this year
Munster continues to be the success story in terms of farmland sales. The abolition of quotas in 2015 has seen the dairy industry firmly consolidate its position as the backbone of Munster farming and there is little sign that the milk barons have stopped spending.
Auction prices hit a high of €22,000 per acre in South Leinster
Sales in South Leinster remained steady in the first six months of the year and while the region saw some declines in figures there is substantially little difference in its performance in the land sales' stakes from 2018.
'Armchair farmers' face entitlements clampdown
The Department of Agriculture is set to clamp down on so-called 'armchair' farmers who lease out their entitlements.
Beef Trade: Out-of-spec or overage stock look set for a hammering
Questioned as to whether the pickets currently outside beef plants will continue Beef Plan joint national chairman, Hugh Doyle, said over the weekend that the organisation intended to "scale up protests".
Land sales slump by over 60pc on back of beef crisis and Brexit uncertainty
A review of the public auction scene for the first six months of the year makes for some grim reading.
Crop yields remain strong despite broken weather
Broken weather conditions have delayed progress in the harvest over the bank holiday weekend, but cutting is continuing between showers, and yields generally remain strong.
Gerard Sherlock: After a remarkable summer for grass growth it's time to start thinking about autumn covers
The last six weeks has to be among the best periods for grass growth I have witnessed during my years of farming. Growth of over 100kg/day were recorded in a lot of my paddocks.
Under-pressure Creed says he cannot 'legally' intervene in beef price dispute
A spokesperson for the Minister for Agriculture has stressed that neither he nor the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine can legally have any role in determining the prices for beef or any other commodity.
Imports of Northern Irish lambs surge back after slow June
Imports of lambs from Northern Ireland increased dramatically recently following a fall-off in recent months.
Environmental groups launch EU campaign to ban all pesticides by 2035
A new campaign has been launched by EU environmental groups to ban all pesticides by 2035.
IFA National Treasurer meets with Beef Plan protesters
In a significant move, IFA National Treasurer and presidential candidate Tim Cullinan has called on the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed to intervene immediately to resolve the escalating crisis in the beef sector.
NI farmers 'isolated and anxious' as cost of rural crime rises
FARMERS feel under siege because of the impact of rural crime on their livelihoods, it has been claimed.
Central bank warns of banks exposure to agri sector as no-deal Brexit looms
The Central Bank as highlighted the 'significant' exposure of the Irish banks to the agriculture sector as a risk to the economy in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
Number of herds testing positive for TB increases
The proportion of cattle herds testing positive for TB has increased marginally compared to 2018, despite the serious efforts being made to eradicate the disease.
Two-year delay to CAP could be on the cards, warns Department
A two-year delay in the introduction of the next CAP programme has not been ruled out by the Department of Agriculture.
Retail giants ramping up their investment in 'alternative' meat
Unilever, Tesco and Nestlé are among the best prepared to capitalise on the trend for plant-based meat substitutes, according to a report from an investor group managing $5 trillion (€4.5 trillion) in assets.
Five steps to consider if your land is the subject of a CPO
The invitation to readers to let me know about their compulsory purchase order (CPO) experiences has generated some interesting responses, not least that of Henry, who is a medium-sized intensive dairy farmer in the west of Ireland.
Nitrates derogation farmers will have to up their game on 'green' measures
Ireland's nitrates derogation provides farmers with an opportunity to farm at higher stocking rates, above 170kg livestock manure nitrogen/ ha, subject to additional conditions designed to protect the environment.
Tom Staunton - 'It's all systems go ahead of the autumn sales season'
All the lambs have been weaned at this stage, and both the ewes and lambs were in good shape at weaning compared to previous years.
Tipp land sells for close to €16,000/ac
South Tipperary auctioneer Matthew Ryan had a good day when he sold an 85ac farm near Cashel, achieving a price of €1.35m or over €15,880/ac.
Roads deal between IFA and Government saved State €300m
A deal struck between the Government and the IFA saved has saved the State up to €300m on the cost of new road projects, according to Michael Nolan, chief executive Transport Infrastructure Ireland, TII.
Creed 'needs to roll up his sleeves' and intervene in the beef sector crisis
The Beef Plan Movement is set to continue its protests at meat factory gates as Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed comes under increased pressure to intervene in the dispute.
Jim O'Brien: Every week needs to be a farm safety week
Last week was farm safety week, but I suppose every week should be safety week on farms. In the course of my work, I have occasion to visit a lot of farm holdings. While some places may not have been actively farmed for some time, most are described as 'ready-to-go' operations, meaning they are as good as any other farm.
Charollais rams go for more than €2k/hd at GVM Mart
A Co Cork sheep breeder paid the top price of €3,400 for the Reserve Male Champion at the Irish Charollais Sheep Society Premier Show and Sale at GVM Mart, Tullamore on Saturday.
'Part of the farm will be flooded and eaten away in 20 years'
Wexford farmer Jamie Ryan is fearful that in 20 years' time, half of his farm will be flooded due to severe coastal erosion.
Beef plan vow to continue protests into second week as standoff with factories continues
The Beef Plan Movement is set to continue its protests at meat factory gates into a second week as the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed comes under increased pressure to intervene in the dispute.
Lakeside dairy holding for €470,000
'Oh to be in Dunaree' is Kingscourt's version of 'Come Back Paddy Reilly'.
'These animals essentially live with nature - there's no mass production'
Will Condon thinks his father Joe's decision to set up an organic Galloway herd on the foothills of the Knockmealdown Mountains in the mid 90s was ahead of its time and brave.
Trump, EU officials announce deal to sell more American beef to Europe
US President Donald Trump announced a deal on Friday to sell more American beef to Europe, a modest win for an administration that remains mired in a trade war with China, but he said tariffs on European auto exports remain a possibility.
Vets call for safe access to work amid ongoing beef protests
Veterinary Ireland has called on the Department of Agriculture to ensure that vets are not intimidated and have safe access to their place of work.
Fianna Fáil call on Creed to engage in beef crisis
Fianna Fáil Agriculture Spokesperson Charlie McConalogue has called on Minister Creed to meet with farming representative organisations and the meat industry to address the growing crisis affecting the beef sector.
Ann Fitzgerald: 'Stop demonising suckler sector - blame and pain should be shared'
I've come up with a solution that would make a major dent in Dublin's homelessness problem - knock down Trinity College and replace it with medium-density housing.
Co-ops must modernise, warns ICOS boss as new figures reveal just 2pc of directors are women
The future of the co-op movement is in jeopardy because of the lack of women and young people in decision-making positions, Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) CEO TJ Flanagan has said.
Finance: 'I never thought our family would fall out over land. But, unfortunately that's turned out to be the case.'
Q I never thought our family would fall out over land. But, unfortunately that's turned out to be the case. My father was a beef farmer for 40 years until his sudden death a few years ago. I am one of five siblings but none of us were interested in working the land. Inheritance and 'who would get the land' never really entered into any of our minds until our father's passing. Even at that point the...
Trump to announce EU beef trade deal today
US President Donald Trump will announce a deal today, which he says will allow the US sell more American beef to Europe, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said, marking a modest win for an administration that remains mired in a trade war with China.
Garda investigation after farmer hospitalised with 'serious' leg injuries after being struck by truck
Gardai have confirmed they are investigating an incident outside Dawn Meats in Slane this morning, that left a farmer with serious leg injuries after he was struck by a truck.
Beef Plan protests enter 6th day
Protests by the Beef Plan Movement outside meat factories is continuing into its sixth day at a number of meat factories.
There's still room for the 50-cow farm says Teagasc
MANY dairy farms with 50-60 cows are very profitable, according to Teagasc, and there won't be a mass exodus from these farms it predicts.
Bulk of Trump's U.S. farm aid goes to biggest and wealthiest farmers: advocacy group
More than half of the Trump administration’s $8.4 billion in trade aid payments to U.S. farmers through April was received by the top 10% of recipients, the country’s biggest and most successful farmers, a study by an advocacy group showed on Tuesday.
Longford farmer scoops €55,005 in TellyBingo to splash out on 'newer' tractor
It was a day to remember for a lucky Longford farmer who collected a cool €55,005 Telly Bingo Snowball prize from National Lottery headquarters in Dublin yesterday.
There won’t be any Googles setting up in rural Ireland - agri is its backbone - FBD's Muldoon
Agriculture is the backbone of rural Ireland and any impact on this will affect FBD, its Chief Executive Fiona Muldoon has said.
Limerick stud withdrawn from auction at €6.1m
The 286ac Kilfrush Stud at Knocklong, Co Limerick, was withdrawn from auction last week after being bid to €6.1m.
Robin Talbot: 'Hairy' paddocks have been given a good trimming from the mower
We started the winter barley harvest last week in ideal conditions, and both quality and yield are well above last year's levels. There are also ample quantities of good quality straw.
Cross-border agriculture trade in North to 'virtually stop' in event of no-deal Brexit, warns leaked document
Cross-border agriculture trade in Northern Ireland will "virtually stop" in the event of no-deal Brexit, according to a leaked UK government document.
Naughten calls on Minister Creed to convene emergency beef summit
The Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed is being called upon to convene an emergency beef summit as the Beef Plan protests continue.
Meat factories accuse Beef Plan protesters of 'abuse and intimidation' but says it will engage in talks if protests are called off
Meat Industry Ireland has said it will engage with the leadership of the Beef Plan movement, if it calls off its protests, but it also accused some of the group's members of "unacceptable abuse and intimidation of fellow farmer suppliers, company employees, government assigned veterinarians and other service providers including hauliers".
Case New Holland cuts sales forecast as agricultural equipment sales slump
CNH (Case New Holland) has reported a 7pc decrease in sales of its agricultural machinery for the second quarter of 2019.
Why timing is vital when treating rushes
If you are considering spraying rushes timing is everything.
Electric car and used-import sales surge
THE number of people and businesses buying electric cars soared again in July.
'Hoping that it won’t happen is not a sound strategy' - Appeal to agri sector to immediately prepare for no-deal Brexit
The Government is appealing to agri-food businesses, traders and hauliers of agricultural commodities to act immediately to ensure that they have taken the necessary steps to prepare for a 'No Deal' Brexit.