They kept our roads open during Storm Emma but farmers left in the dark on insurance 

Pat Minnock: Proper nutrient planning measures can yield big savings on fertiliser 

At this time every year I see farmers with great intentions about improving their soil and fertility management. They resolve to sample their farm and take on board serious nutrient management planning (NMP).

Agriculture is the most unequal sector in the Irish economy - report 

Emerging findings from a new research report on inequality in Ireland shows that the agricultural sector is the most unequal sector in Ireland when it comes to the distribution of income.

Charolais breed takes centre stage at global conference in Ireland 

Hundreds of pedigee Charolais breeders representing the breed worldwide are expected to attend the 2019 World Charolais Technical Congress, which is being hosted in Ireland from August 4-12.

'Wet snow' on the way as freezing conditions hit overnight 

Flurries of sleet and "wet snow" are due to sweep in overnight as the thermometers drop below zero.

Farming groups say Lancet report fails to recognise carbon efficient production in Ireland 

Responding to the report published by The Lancet calling for an overhaul of dietary advice to include a reduction of 90pc in meat consumption has been strongly criticised by farming organisations.

Glyphosate detected in drinking water in Waterford, farmers urged to be mindful when spraying pesticides 

Exceedances in pesticides have been detected in drinking water sources in Co. Waterford.

South American imports a threat to beef incomes, warns Bord Bia 

The threat of increased beef imports into Europe from Argentina could erase any benefits that accrue to Irish farmers from lower EU beef production in 2019.

Henry Walsh: We're banking on the new parlour to cut costs in 2019 

I want to begin by wishing everyone a safe and healthy 2019. Thankfully, there was a 40pc reduction in fatal farm accidents in 2018 - and through education and awareness we can continue to maintain this progress.

Martin Coughlan: Farmers the losers in beef numbers game 

The factory trade continues to be difficult with the numbers game remaining the main stumbling block. Last week's overall factory kill was 35,828, up significantly on the 32,974 from the same week last year.

Carrefour to audit abbatoirs, demand cameras for animal welfare 

Carrefour will audit the slaughterhouses which supply its own-brand meat and ask them to install cameras in response to rising consumer demand for socially responsible practices.

Farmers heap pressure on Hogan for 'no deal' support 

Following the defeat of the Brexit motion in the House of Commons this evening, IFA President Joe Healy traveled to Brussels for a meeting with EU Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan.

Principal appointed to Teagasc Kildalton Agricultural College 

Teagasc has appointed Tim Ashmore as the new Principal in the Teagasc Agricultural and Horticulture College in Kildalton, Pilltown, County Kilkenny.

Toyota Hilux seized over suspected diesel theft from farmyard 

Gardai in Meath have seized a Toyota Hilux suspected of being involved in the theft of diesel from a farmyard in Slane this week.

No-deal Brexit would end cross-border sheep trade 

Brexit could cause serious difficulties for the Irish sheep processing sector, Bord Bia's Declan Fennell told last week's Meat Marketing Seminar.

Mart insurance to remain 'stubbornly high' until there is a change in accident frequency, FBD warns 

Mart insurance premiums will remain stubbornly high until there is a change in the severity and frequency of accidents, FBD Insurance has said.

Watch Pöttinger mowers swath merging without conditioners 

The latest development from Pöttinger enables swaths to be merged for the first time without a conditioner: thanks to the new cross conveyor auger the swath is merged immediately after mowing.

Coveney says he hasn't cut back on meat 

TÁNAISTE Simon Coveney has said he hasn’t decided to eat less meat in a bid to cut his own carbon footprint.

National Reserve will be open for applications in 2019 

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed, has today confirmed the National Reserve will be open for applications in 2019. 

TDs demand new rural crime task-force and stronger trespass laws 

A dedicated rural crime task-force and a review of trespass laws to strengthen the rights for farmers to protect their property were among a series of demands set out by Independent TDs last night.

More new year cheer for sheep farmers as prices keep on rising 

In contrast to the cattle factory trade, the early weeks of 2019 have seen the fortunes of those with sheep to sell improve, with quotes on our table below better this week by 5-10c/kg.

Kerry Group holds milk price for December supplies 

Our Kerry Group base price for December milk supplies remains unchanged at 32cpl vat inclusive. Based on average December milk solids, the price return inclusive of vat and bonuses is 39.5cpl.

Robin Talbot: We are €200/hd worse off on young bull sales 

I recently sat down in front of the computer and compared the sale of Under 16-month bulls sold in the back end 2017 and those sold in the comparable period 2018. As suspected, it wasn't pretty viewing.

Beef Plan Movement looking to raise €2m to produce and market own beef 

The Beef Plan Movement is looking to set up its own co-ops to handle the slaughtering of cattle and market its own beef products.

'Call it panic or what not....but we saw the word superlevy and decided not to milk the cows' 

There are just 70 dairy farmers milking once a day in Ireland at the moment, but over 200 possible converts turned up to the Teagasc seminar on once-a-day milking.

Storm Emma-type bread shortages will be the norm in the event of a hard Brexit, warn farmers 

Bread shortages on par with those experienced during last year’s Storm Emma snow could become the norm in the event of a hard Brexit, farmers have warned.

Beef crisis: Economist to undertake root-and-branch investigation of beef sector 

A wide-ranging review of the beef sector is being undertaken by the IFA in reaction to growing concerns about the viability of suckler beef farming.

'We're no shrinking violets'- IFA exec, despite survey showing Irish female farm managers among lowest in EU 

Ireland has one of the lowest percentages of female farm managers, a new EU survey has revealed, but dairy farmer Imelda Walsh believes that "women aren’t shrinking violets" and the tide is turning.

Bread shortages seen during Storm Emma could become norm in event of hard Brexit 

Bread shortages on a par with those experienced during last year's Storm Emma snow could become the norm in the event of a hard Brexit, farmers have warned.

Varadkar dines out on steak amid beef backlash 

Farming groups and Opposition TDs have reacted furiously to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's remarks that he's eating less meat to reduce his carbon footprint.

Turkey suspending live exports of cattle "a further setback for Irish beef farmers" 

Sinn Féin Agricultural spokesperson Martin Kenny TD has described the news that Turkey has suspended live exports of cattle as "a further setback for Irish beef farmers."

'I had a very nice Hereford steak last night' - says Varadkar under fire for cutting back on meat comments 

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said today that he enjoyed a nice Hereford steak last night, as he continues to come under fire for his comments about cutting back on eating meat.

Farm safety projects took centre stage at Young Scientist competition 

Farm safety and farmers' mental well-being were the focus of some rural-centred projects on show at this year's BT Young Scientist Exhibition in Dublin.

'It isn't a farmer's job to look after people's dogs'-INHFA President calls on State to step in on sheep attacks issue 

State authorities need to step in to prevent further dog attack devastation on sheep flocks, President of the INHFA has urged.

Large increase in the number of soils in the optimum pH range for grass production 

The 2018 annual review of soil sample results prepared by Teagasc is showing some improvement in soil fertility after years of decline or stagnation.

Dog owner told €200 is not enough compensation for farmer 

A dog owner whose pet attacked and kill a sheep on a neighbouring farm has been told by Judge Kevin Kilrane that €200 she paid over is not enough in compensation.

'Reckless in the extreme': Taoiseach comments on meat eating slammed by farmers 

Comments by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar regarding consuming less meat to mitigate climate change has been described as “reckless in the extreme”.

Global Dairy Trade sees fourth rise in succession as Irish co-ops hold their milk price 

The second GDT (Global Dairy Trade) event of the year has seen prices rise for the fourth time in succession and has signalled a positive start to 2019 as Irish co-ops hold their milk price quotes.

Is producing 'marginal milk' costing you money? 

Marginal milk brings revenue, but it also brings additional costs and often these are costs are much greater than what most people consider in simplistic partial budgeting excercises, John Roche said, speaking at the recent Irish Grassland Association conference.

We cannot feed our nation without non-UK labour, says NFU Scotland 

Britain will not be able to feed itself without the help of seasonal non-UK labour after Brexit, according to the head of a farming union.

Martin Coughlan: Mart closures raising some hard questions 

In the last 10 months three major marts have ceased trading. Added to the loss of Castleblayney and Carrick-on-Suir marts in 2018, last week's closure of Mountrath had some in the business asking hard questions as to where now for those remaining.

Grass growth 'phenomenal' but cold snap is on the way 

Farmers have reaped the rewards of phenomenal early grass this January, with livestock back out on paddocks across much of the country and silage even being cut in some areas.

Irish farmers can't rely on a 'rabbit out of a hat' solution to Brexit - ICMSA President 

The Irish government can’t wait for "a rabbit out of a hat solution to Brexit" and must make plans on the basis that the UK will leave the European Union, ICMSA President Patrick McCormack said.

China has culled more than 900,000 pigs due to African swine fever 

China has culled 916,000 pigs after around 100 outbreaks of African swine fever in the country, the agriculture ministry said this week, as the disease continues to spread to new regions and larger farms.

Man killed while cutting trees on farm named as young father-of-five 

A young father of five has been killed after part of a tree hit him while he was clearing away forestry in Co Donegal.

EU Auditors warn that food safety system overstretched (highlights pesticides levels on food imports) 

The EU’s system for protecting consumers from chemical hazards in food is overstretched, according to a new report from the European Court of Auditors.

Exclusive Factory management surveyed by Department about use of CCTV in meat plants 

A survey on the use of CCTV in slaughterhouses in Ireland has been undertaken by the Department of Agriculture.

Man dies while cutting trees on his farm 

Gardai have confirmed that a man died on Friday, while cutting trees on his farm.

Varadkar 'trying to eat less meat' to reduce carbon footprint 

TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has said he's trying to eat meat less as part of his own efforts to reduce his carbon footprint.

Dairygold offers suppliers a 0.15c/L bonus - if they participate in milk recording and herd health programme 

Dairygold has announced that it is introducing a new milk supplier sustainabilty bonus, based on farmers milk recording and join a herd health programme..

Cork: A divided county - how one half has reduced its TB rates but the other half has seen an increase 

The incidence rate of TB in Cork has largely remained the same over the past number of years, but there is a significant difference between north and south of the county.

Farmers in all sectors can now get grant aid for Meal Bins 

In response to requests the Department of Agriculture has approved Meal Bins for all sectors under the TAMS farm building grant scheme.

Clean slate for County Limerick farmer fined over his Effin cows’ dung 

A COUNTY Limerick farmer convicted and fined €300 over his Effin cows’ dung now has a clean record after an appeal to the Circuit Court.

Vets to vote on agreement to end work to rule in factories 

A deal has been reached that is expected to end the work to rule by vets in meat factories, after weeks of disruption.

Coffee price slump leaves farmers earning less than a cent a cup 

In the verdant southern highlands of Ethiopia, coffee farmer Gafeto Gardo is thinking about calling time on an industry that has sustained families for generations.

Six steps to improve your finances and your long-term prospects 

Many farmers are glad to see the back of 2018, and will now wonder what 2019 will bring.

'Ireland is one of the best places in the world to grow cereals but the economics are against growers' 

With the average Irish person eating an estimated 54 kilogrammes of flour each year, a casual observer would be forgiven for thinking that growing cereals in Ireland would be a lucrative occupation. However the truth is that the cereal sector is doing far from well.

Tighter hogget numbers to bolster prices this spring 

Hogget prices are expected to hold above €5/kg for the early months of the year as numbers continue to tighten.

Producer groups a 'positive' for beef sector - Creed 

Producer groups could have a positive role to play in the future development of the beef sector in Ireland, the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, has maintained.

US to seek comprehensive agriculture access in EU trade talks 

The United States on Friday signaled it would not bow to the European Union’s request to keep agriculture out of planned U.S.-EU trade talks, publishing negotiating objectives that seek comprehensive EU access for American farm products.

Hogan tipped to stay on amid pressure to name next EU commissioner 

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will come under increasing pressure to make an early decision about who will be Ireland's next EU Commissioner.

Ann Fitzgerald: 'Laying the roots for an exciting new venture in forestry' 

I'm delighted that we're starting 2019 on an energising note inside the farm gate, as we have just completed the planting of eight acres of forestry.

Tommy Boland: Scanning results in UCD farm indicate a bumper crop of triplets 

The remaining 15 lambs (2pc of all lambs born) from the 2018 lambing season were sold on December 19.

'A new mindset is needed to solve the TB problem' 

Waterford suckler and sheep farmer Sean Harris wonders if Bovine TB will ever be eradicated in Ireland - and quickly answers his own question by saying, "Never," if the authorities persist with the current eradication programme.

'We have to make sure Roundup stays available to farmers' 

Liam Condon has come a long way since his teenage years spent doing "back-breaking work" picking vegetables on a neighbours' farm on the Navan Road in Dublin 7.

Farm evictions: Can you potentially be physically removed from your property? 

Q I have been following recent media reports about farm evictions. What is the process for a court judgment against you if you get into financial difficulty? Can you potentially be physically removed from your property? What is the role of the county sheriff and the Garda Síochána? What are the laws on the methods finance companies and their personnel employ in enforcing an eviction?

Helen Harris: 'Banks are open for business - as long as you don't mention machinery' 

As the weather gets that bit colder, there is no excuse for not getting on top of all the indoor jobs. January is also the month of conferences and it's a great time to get finances in order.

Dumping of dead calves in plastic bags ‘shows disgusting disregard for area’ 

Six dead calves were found dumped in the Stoneyford area of Lisburn Co Down in the last 24 hours.

Tillage returns improve but Teagasc urges caution after 'freak' year 

The average returns from winter wheat and spring barley increased 50pc in 2018 compared to 2017, preliminary results from the Teagasc eProfit Monitor indicate.

Farm Finance: The road to farming success is paved with realistic resolutions 

Most of us like to face into a new year with a positive 'can do' attitude.

Hunting with dogs to be ‘effectively halted’ in Scotland 

Scottish ministers are cracking down on hunting with hounds in moves that will effectively shut down the activity north of the border.

How this farmer's sheep got through the snow and fodder crisis, while he coped with depression 

Eoghan Ó Conchúir had battled and taken control of depression, an illness which nearly claimed his life. Today, Eoghan sits in Dingle's Benners Hotel knowing that tens of thousands have listened to his call on Facebook for people to ignore the stigma that sometimes goes with depression and take steps like those which saved him last summer.

Cold snap to replace this milder weather at end of week 

Don't pack away the winter hat and gloves just yet because a colder snap is on the way.

Firefighters rescue 39 bulls from overturned lorry 

Some 39 bulls have been rescued from an overturned lorry by firefighters.

Hogget prices reached 5-year high last year, but national flock numbers expected to decline 

The country's national sheep flock is expected to decline this year, despite hogget prices reaching a five-year high last year.

Get in the zone ahead of slurry spreading season - See the slurry spreading dates across Ireland 

Let me start by wishing all readers a happy and healthy 2019. We had unseasonably mild weather over Christmas and the New Year, which has really helped ground conditions come on.

Vets under pressure to halt work-to-rule action 

Farm organisations and meat processors have called for a resumption of talks to end a 'work-to-rule' protest by temporary veterinary inspectors (TVIs) which is seriously disrupting operations at slaughter plants.

Glanbia and Lakeland hold milk price but warn of 'volatile' and 'uncertain' market 

Glanbia and Lakeland Daries have held their milk price for December supplies while also issuing warnings to suppliers about pressures on the global dairy market.

Up to 40,000 less cattle will be slaughtered this year - Bord Bia 

Between 20,000 and 40,000 less cattle will be slaughtered in 2019, according to Bord Bia’s Latest forecast on the meat sector.

Ringside at Headford Mart: 'The mood this time last year was far more positive' 

I have never been to the country around Headford in Galway, but in putting together this piece on Headford Co-operative Livestock Mart I may just put that to rights in 2019, writes Martin Coughlan.

Department commences 2019 Forestry payments - €26m paid to almost 5,000 forest owners 

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has announced the commencement of the 2019 Forestry Premium payments totalling some €26.1 million to almost 5,000 forest owners.

Gerard Sherlock: 'We're keeping our fingers crossed for another clear TB test result' 

The terrific weather of the past three months definitely made it a lot easier to farm. And only for the darkness dropping down around 4pm, you could be tempted to work on a lot longer.

'A hard Brexit might be the best thing for our dairy industry - it would free up lots of land' 

A hard Brexit could, indirectly, provide some opportunities for high profit dairy farmers, according to one leading Agri Consultant.

Land prices nationally fell slightly in 2018 but raced ahead by 25pc in southern counties 

Land prices remained steady in 2018 despite a year of severe weather events, fodder shortages and cashflow problems, not to mention the spectre of a no-deal Brexit.

South Leinster: Commuter belt land market heating up 

South Leinster continues to be the prime place in Ireland to own or sell farmland, it remains an expensive spot for the buyer. This year the region was ahead in all the land indicators but was knocked back into second place by Munster in the per-acre stakes.

North Leinster: 'The money is where the milk is' 

The land sale figures for North Leinster in 2018 tell a stark tale. The amount of land sold under the hammer at 2,421ac was down 17.5pc on 2017 while the amount of money generated by sales was back 33.5pc. The 2018 per-acre price slipped from €12,229 to €9,860 or 21pc below the 2017 level.

Munster: Intense competition driving Munster prices to record highs 

For the first time since these auction surveys began, the per-acre price for land is highest in the southern province at €14,292/ac, beating south Leinster land by over €700/ac and marking an increase of 25pc on the price per acre achieved in the province last year.

The fertiliser plan to set your farm up for success this growing season 

The amount of phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) for required largely depends on how much grass is going to be utilised according to Stan Lalor, speaking to the audience at the Irish Grassland Association conference this week.

Connacht/Ulster: Sales buoyant as 1,400ac changes hands 

Farm sales in Connacht and Ulster were more than buoyant with all indicators on the ascendant apart from the average per acre price that fell somewhat.

Would I take my Aryzta job now? Honestly, I don't know - McGann 

ARYZTA chairman Gary McGann said he doesn't know if he would have assumed the role of chairman at the baked goods company had he known how bad its problems were.

How an extra tonne of grass can reduce many dairy farmers' feed costs by €8,000 

Addressing grass growth on the whole farm, not just the milking platform, is essential for reducing the costs associated with feeding according to Teagasc Dairy Business and technology Advisor Richard O’Brien.

'What kind of a sick individual would do this?' - Gardai investigate slicing of calf’s tongue 

A Garda investigation is underway in Inishowen, Co Donegal after a calf in the area had his tongue sliced in a suspected malicious attack.

Farmer with a 'heart of gold' who died tragically named locally 

A rural community is coming to grips with the devastating loss of a neighbour with a "heart of gold” who was regarded as one of the most progressive farmers in his locality.

Cheese exports to the UK down in 2018, despite Brexit stockpiling 

Irish exports of cheese to the UK fell significantly last year despite milk processors moving significant quantities in the later months of 2018 to avoid any post-Brexit risks.

2018 weather cost dairy farmers 6c/L - how to get your farm finances ready for any challenge 

Dairy farmers need to prepare now and can’t assume that an extreme weather year like 2018 won’t happen again, Head of Agriculture at AIB Tadgh Buckley has warned.

Can you be a high profit dairy farmer? Here's the 7 key traits you need 

There are certain traits and characteristics that are common among profitable farmers that see them earning a higher margin compared to their peers, Agricultural Consultant and Land Agent Mike Brady told the room at this week's Irish Grassland Association conference.

Illegal dumping - 'Any farm within 10 miles of a town is being targeted' 

Farmers fear that illegal dumping on their land will get worse before it gets better.

Testing programme extended in Monaghan to address major TB outbreak 

Farmers in Monaghan have been informed that the TB testing programme has been extended due to the high incidence of bovine TB in the county.

EU trade commissioner says talks with US will not include agriculture 

The European Union and United States have not yet agreed on the scope of their trade negotiations, but the EU will not include agriculture in the talks, its trade commissioner Cecilia Malmström told reporters on Wednesday.

Investigation launched after farmer dies tragically while demolishing shed 

A Co. Mayo farmer died tragically today after part of the roof of a shed which he was demolishing fell on him.

Farmer receives garda warning about patrolling roads around land with shotgun 

Gardaí have told a farmer that he cannot patrol the roads around his farm with a shotgun to protect his sheep against attacks by dogs accompanying hillwalkers.

Lamb prices break the magical €5/kg barrier 

Before getting into the nitty gritty of factory prices, a word about an issue that has periodically dogged relations between farmers and factories.

Brexit anxiety reason for formation of new IBEC-led forestry group, say industry leaders 

Brexit anxiety was the catalyst that led to the formation of Forestry Industries Ireland (FII), a new trade association for the forestry and timber industry that has been set up by IBEC.

New rules could force older marts to shut down 

New mart regulations introduced this week will increase pressure on marts already struggling to cope with rising insurance costs and red tape, industry sources have warned.

Factories can pick and choose from abundance of bulls 

While this is a new year, base prices for bullocks and heifers have remained exactly as they were in my last report before Christmas, ie €3.75/kg for steers with heifers 10c/kg better at €3.85/kg.

New peer-to-peer farm safety initiative to be rolled out in 2019 

The Irish Farmers Association is to rollout a peer-to-peer farm safety learning initiative which will encourage farmers to undertake practical measures that will reduce the risk on their own farm.

Feeding cows seaweed 'will not help in tackling global warming' 

Hopes that a seaweed additive to cattle feed could dramatically reduce Irish greenhouse gases have been dashed by Agriculture Minister Michael Creed.

Value of Irish food and drink exports falls in 2018 as dependence on UK market increases 

The value of Irish food, drink and horticulture exports fell 4pc last year on the back of Despite a year of unprecedented global volatility, involving political uncertainty, extreme weather events and continuing currency fluctuations.

2 simple ways to check if your slats have signs of cracks or faults 

Firefighters recently saved three cattle from a slurry tank after the cattle fell in and almost drowned and Teagasc is reminding farmers to check their slats for signs of cracks and faults.

Farmer appeals to dog owners after vicious sheep kill 

A sheep farming family, based in the Ferrycarrig area, is appealing to people to keep an eye on their dogs after a vicious attack which saw three of their sheep killed and nine injured, the Wexford People reports.

Mostly dry weekend ahead to allow farmers make most of spreading season 

An overall dry outlook for the weekend should mean slurry and fertiliser spreading season should get off to a positive start, despite some rain forecast for the west.

Parts of Belgium bans non-stun halal and kosher slaughter 

New legislation which bans the slaughter of animals without prior stunning has come in to effect in parts of Belgium.

'On many farms, wormers are failing to control worms effectively' 

Over the past two years, researchers in Teagasc Grange have being testing the effectiveness of various wormers on the market.

Government must decide on regulator for supermarkets to enforce new legislation banning unfair trading practices 

The Government will now need to act quickly and decide if a separate regulator needs to be set up to begin planning for new legislation banning unfair trading practices in the food supply chain since the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) believes it should not be charged with implementation of the legislation.

Milk production set to increase by 300m litres in 2019 

The massive surge in milk production over the last decade looks set to continue into 2019, with all the main processors predicting continued supply growth.

Beef crisis: prices slump as Brexit threat looms 

THE beef sector is at crisis point due to the continuing slump in factory prices and the threat of a no-deal Brexit, farm leaders are warning.

John Heney: 'Politicians need to wise up to how close the beef sector is to a tipping point' 

Looking at the countryside last week, I was mindful of the song 'Forty Shades of Green'. The mild spell over the Christmas resulted in some unusually early grass growth which has helped to ease us gently into 2019. Hopefully, this is a good omen for the year ahead.

Roundup pesticide safe, says Irishman with firm 

An Irish businessman on the board of a company that produces controversial pesticide Roundup said consumers and farmers should be in no doubt that the product is safe.

British officials 'put out feelers' on delay to EU exit 

British and European officials are discussing the possibility of extending Article 50 amid fears a Brexit deal will not be completed by March 29.

I'll shoot any dogs that come onto my land - even those on leads, says farmer 

A farmer has claimed he is "patrolling" roads close to his home with a double-barrelled shotgun, threatening to shoot dogs accompanying hillwalkers.

Farm fatalities down 40pc, but agriculture still has the most work-related deaths 

Figures issued by the Health and Safety Authority show a 23pc decline in work related fatalities in 2018.

How just one calf cost a farmer his entire Genomics payment 

Every year the Ombudsman deals with thousands of complaints from members of the public about the public services in this country, including farmers complaining about the Department of Agriculture.

Non-compliant carcase trimming cases revealed todate may 'only be tip of iceberg' - Beef Plan group 

The 19 cases of non-compliant carcase trim specification revealed so far may only be the tip of the iceberg, according to the Beef Plan Movement, which is calling for farmer representatives to be allowed factory access to supervise.

Allowing hormone-treated beef into the UK could turn British shoppers off meat altogether - new research 

Allowing imports of products such as chlorine-washed chicken and hormone-treated beef in a post-Brexit trade deal could negatively impact the UK meat industry, according to new research.

EU's imports of soya from the US up 112% 

Imports of US soya beans by the European Union increased by 112pc over the current market year (July-December 2018), compared to the same period in the previous year.

EU scientists investigating levels of chemical substances in cattle slurry and threat to water quality 

EU scientists have started investigating how chemical substances migrate from cattle manure to water.

Will 5G be turned to as a safety net if rural broadband is not rolled out? 

It seems that every year is a crunch year for rural broadband. But 2019 really is shaping up to be do or die for the State's National Broadband Plan, the pledge to connect 540,000 businesses and homes in rural areas to state-subsidised fibre internet.

UK farming chief calls for 'net zero' agriculture emissions by 2040 

British farmers must aim to effectively cut out all greenhouse gas emissions within the next two decades, according to the head of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU).

Paul Hayes: 'Think global, live local: rural Ireland offers bright future to our workforce' 

Living and working in Dublin brings many problems, from housing to congestion, but these issues of accelerated growth don't resonate in rural areas. The towns and communities of rural Ireland face the opposite problem - of convincing people that they are great places to live that deserve investment.

Cormac Tagging doubles revenue after securing State contract 

Farms are valuable assets, and like any business, maximising the value from that asset makes good commercial sense. Just like humans with individualised passports, farm animals can be uniquely identified through a numbered tag that is pierced into their ears.

Ulster Farmers: Gove comments confirm 'no-deal' Brexit risk to Northern Irish agriculture 

The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has said comments from Michael Gove on the threat a "no-deal" Brexit would pose to UK agriculture confirms concerns shared in the sector in Northern Ireland.

US delays key agriculture reports due to government shutdown 

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) delayed several major domestic and world crop reports because of the two-week-old partial government shutdown, the agency said this week.

Lay of the Land: Variety both the spice of life and future of farming 

We are one day from completing the first week of the fresh start known as a new year. Though climate change doesn't care about calendar dates.

PCP: Be sure on two key factors in the equation 

Personal Contract Plans (PCPs) continue to cause confusion among buyers, judging by the level of enquiries.

As loans and aid dry up, U.S. farmers face fresh challenge from shutdown 

U.S. farmers, already battered by the U.S.-China trade war, are facing increasing anxiety as the partial government shutdown nears the two-week mark, leaving crucial aid and loan payments in limbo.

Scientists fix photosynthesis ‘glitch’ in plants and boost crop growth by 40% 

Scientists have genetically engineered plants so they grow up to 40pc larger by tweaking the process they use to turn sunlight into food.

African swine fever hits huge, foreign-invested Chinese farm 

China reported an outbreak of deadly African swine fever on a huge pig farm part-owned by a Danish investment fund, showing the spread of the virus to modern industrial farms expected to have the best levels of disease prevention.

Vet factory row set to escalate amid fears more animals won't be slaughtered 

There are fears that increased numbers of pigs will be turned away from meat factories this week as the row between Veterinary Ireland and the Department of Agriculture continues.

Sale of stunning 518ac farm priced at almost €2m bellwether as 'exceptional' amounts of land hits the market in Scotland 

An exceptional amount of farmland in the north of Scotland was sold in the last two years and the Highland market reflects that of the wider Scottish region which saw more land come to the market in 2018 than in the last decade.

Brexit food stockpiling taking up most of UK's cold storage space 

Manufacturers here are reporting that finished goods are taking up most cold storage space as stockpiles hit a six-month high across the UK in preparation for a no-deal Brexit.

Farmers hit by shortage of workers amid low pay rates 

Farmers face a labour shortage as poor pay and employment law breaches still plague the sector.

New laws clear way for launch of low-cost loan scheme for farmers 

The Government pushed through legislation in the last sitting of the Dail in 2018 which now clears the way for the launch of a new low-cost loan scheme for farmers.

End-of-year tractor sales drive machinery market recovery 

The latest tractor and self-propelled machinery registration statistics from the Farm Tractor & Machinery Trade Association (FTMTA) highlight a decent year for sales in general, with a substantial recovery in the Irish tractor market after a sluggish start to 2018.

DUP's Wilson says farmers should be 'relaxed' about no-deal 

The DUP has that it would not support Theresa May's Brexit deal but that businesses and farmers should be relaxed about leaving the EU without an agreement.

Mild weather to continue, but showers expected in coming days 

The mild weather is set to continue, but there will be some sunny breaks throughout the country, however many areas will remain cloudy with highest temperatures of five to nine degrees in mostly light southerly breezes, according to Met Éireann.

Treating housed cattle for liver fluke: a guide 

WHEN you are treating your cattle for liver fluke at housing, are you doing it correctly?

No-deal Brexit would damage UK farming - Gove 

Leaving the European Union without a deal would put at risk "real gains" from Brexit such as boosting productivity in farming and protecting the environment, Michael Gove has said.

Farmer prosecuted for tying a rope across a road while moving cattle 

A Motorcyclist was knocked off his bike by a rope which was tied across a minor road by a farmer while he was herding cattle, a sitting of Castlebar District Court heard.

Farmers face labour shortage as poor pay and employment law breaches plague sector 

The Irish agri-food sector remains one of the lowest paying, while significant employment issues are highlighted as farmers struggle to find labour.

Calls for Minister to detail potential EU supports for Irish farmers facing no-deal Brexit 

The IFA has called on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to bring forward more detail in relation to his comments about EU aid in the event of a hard Brexit.

John Deere updates 5R Series tractors for 2019 

John Deere has announced several updates to its 5R Series tractors from 90 to 125hp, designed to increase their versatility and suitability for small and medium sized livestock and arable farms.

First Global Dairy Trade of the year sees another boost 

The first Global Dairy Trade of the year has seen prices - the third lift in succession.

Cows pulled from slurry tank by specialist crews 

Firefighters were called to a farm in Co Tyrone to rescue three cows from a slurry pit.

Emergency EU aid for farmers to be sought for Brexit fallout 

The Government will seek hundreds of millions of euro in special aid from Brussels if the UK crashes out of the EU without a deal.

New tax credit rates for farmers come into force 

The €200 increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit to €1,350 for farmers and the self employed comes into force this year.

Bord Bia income from farmer levy increases quarter of a million 

Bord Bia's income from a statutory levy on slaughtered or exported livestock increased to €5.9m in 2017.

Haulier faces huge bill and court fine after oversized load of straw closed Limerick Tunnel for three days 

A haulage contractor who caused more than €100,000 worth of damage and who forced the closure of the Limerick Tunnel for three days has been fined €5,000.

John Downing: 'Unless deadlock is broken, we'll have the begging bowl out again' 

The late Charlie Haughey did not miss a beat when he was asked how he felt about Ireland getting more than £5 back for every £1 contributed to the EU coffers.

10 checks to provide peace of mind when buying machinery 

Farmers themselves have a role to play in making sure they do not inadvertently support the criminal gangs operating rural crime rings.

The big switch - Our motoring experts' guide to the latest crossover and SUV options 

THE switch from traditional family saloon/hatchback to Crossover and SUV is one of the most dramatic developments in motoring over the past few years.

Farming's tech revolution to have losers as well as winners 

Smart technologies such as robotics could revolutionise farming and even solve future labour shortage, but risk having a negative social impact unless handled properly, researchers have said.

Watch this battery-powered feeding robot that moves via magnets 

Automated feeders increase efficiency and solve labour issues and was on display at the EuroTier Show in Hanover before Christmas.

Warning to dog owners after German shepherd kills sheep in Louth 

Dog owners have been warned that they can face substantial claims for compensation if their pets kill or injure sheep.

Cork leads the way with contract rearing as majority of heifers remain in home county 

Just 5pc of specialist dairy farms are engaged in contract heifer rearing, but Teagasc expects this to increase as the national herd continues to grow in size.

‘It’s time to get tough with these people’ – Calls on councils to tackle post Christmas illegal dumping 

Local authorities to develop plans to address the annual increase in littering of the countryside that takes place post-Christmas, as people recklessly dump cans, bottles, used wrapping paper and even the left overs of Christmas dinners.

Legal Advice: I feel like I’m being refused my inheritance! Can my parents really treat me like this? 

Festive food leftovers dumped in farm fields 

Local authorities are being urged to tackle the annual increase in littering of the countryside that takes place in January - with cans, bottles, used wrapping paper and even the leftovers of Christmas dinners being dumped.

Why 10,000 steps might not be enough exercise - farmers told to step up their fitness regimes 

Walking 10,000 steps a day may not be enough exercise for farmers if they aren't increasing intensity or breaking a sweat.

Teagasc launches one-on-one forestry clinics 

Teagasc is launching a series of one-on-one forestry clinics in January for farmers looking information about establishing forestry on their farm.

Lakeland looks to Middle East and Asia for growth 

Dairy giant Lakeland has said over 140 customers from the Middle East and Asia have visited its facilities in Northern Ireland in recent months.

How the dough in organic bread rising fast 

There is greater awareness of food provenance right across Ireland, much of which is being fuelled by younger consumers interested in where and how the food and drink they consume is produced. While taste is subjective, it is attracting more attention as a distinct selling point.

West Kerry grazing and tourism farm may fetch €1m 

In a previous life I used to spend two weeks of every summer on the Dingle Peninsula in the Gaeltacht of Corca Dhuibhne. It left me with sweet memories and an abiding love of the language. It seems almost strange to be writing about the sale of land in such a magical place.

IFA official: 'North Dublin a template for tackling rural crime in Kerry' 

A special garda unit tackling rural crime in north Dublin is a template for tackling trespassers and individuals hunting illegally on land.

Politicians urged to seal acceptable Brexit deal by UFU chief 

The head of the Ulster Farmers' Union has reiterated that a no deal Brexit outcome will be "unacceptable" for the future of farming in Northern Ireland.

Just two golf courses and 10pc of farmers admit using water from rivers 

Only one in 10 farmers and two golf courses from a possible 300 have told the environmental watchdog they are extracting large volumes of water from rivers, lakes and groundwater sources.

Tax burden reduced from today - but many will actually end up worse off 

Workers are set for some easing of the tax burden from the first day of the new year.

Cormac Healy: Processors have delivered on measures to boost returns to suckler farmers 

Irish beef is listed with more retailers than beef from any other country in the world. Over the last decade or so, huge efforts have been made to increase the penetration of Irish beef with key customer accounts across the UK, Europe and beyond.

Previous generation’s inspired decision on forestry has reaped rewards for this dairy farmer 

Kilkenny farmer Michael Owens runs a mainly dairy enterprise in Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny, milking 125 cows on a holding of almost 80 hectares, with more than half on very good land.

'You might have been expecting it but it’s still a shocking bad feeling when TB happens to your herd' 

Co Monaghan farmers have had a year of turmoil with the scourge of bovine tuberculosis (TB) ravaging the dairy herd in the county.

How to make your dairy farm a better place to work 

The increase in Irish dairy cow numbers from 1.1m cows in 2010 to over 1.4m cows in 2018, has meant that many more dairy farmers are now employing either full or part time people to manage the increased workload, according to Paidi Kelly, speaking at a workshop at the recent National Dairy Conference.

In pictures: 2018 farming year in review as the weather caused havoc 

This year, like no other in recent memory, will be remembered for the extreme weather conditions and havoc it caused.

How to spruce up those conifers in time to watch profits grow 

Teagasc has been organising forest walks, training courses, information days and large national forestry events for more than 25 years. The latest offering was a recent highly successful national forestry event focusing on the management of Norway spruce.

Farmer paralysed in car accident designs own hoist to get back behind wheel of tractor 

A determined farmer who was paralysed in a car accident has designed his own hoist to allow him to take the wheel of his tractor again.

Eddie Punch: We need to go back to basics and develop grass-fed beef as a premium niche product 

The suckler sector faces many challenges. The central issue has always been price and profitability.

Why small is beautiful in Alpine dairy heartlands 

As parched pastures force farmers across Europe to purchase expensive feed crops for their hungry herds, a Swiss dairy association may have part of the answer: smaller beasts.

'It will be ultimately up to individual farmers to come together as a sector to confront the climate change challenge' 

It is well recognised that Irish dairy farmers are among the most environmentally sustainable food producers in the world, according to William Burchill.

How to make sure you're game ready to face the busiest time of the farming year 

The festive season is upon us and there has been lots of preparations around the house in anticipation of the big fella's arrival.

The methodology and accuracy of Sheep Ireland star-rating system doesn't stand up - ICSA 

The methodology and accuracy of the star-rating system doesn't stand up to objective analysis, argues John Brooks

Sheep Ireland is achieving greater accuracy every year with its breed improvement programme - programme manager 

The average accuracy of Sheep in this year's Belclare Premier sale is 43pc, which is a 28pc increase from the 2010 sale. Accuracy figures will continue to rise as we collect more data from both pedigree and commercial flocks and add more traits to the evaluation (i.e. Slaughter data).

State papers: RUC criticised for treating Catholic farmers 'like second-class citizens' 

Farmyard security measures on the Troubles-era hard Irish border prompted disputed allegations of discrimination against Catholics, the files reveal.

7 pointers when employing staff on your farm – a farmer’s point of view 

Labour is fast becoming the new quota for many dairy farms and it’s increasingly important for farmers to become aware of what employees look for applying for work on dairy farms.

Why it's far from a simple process to make money from cereals in Ireland 

With the average Irish person eating an estimated 54 kilogrammes of flour each year, a casual observer would be forgiven for thinking that growing cereals in Ireland would be a lucrative occupation. However the truth is that the cereal sector is doing far from well.

Meat factories turning away animals as vets' work to rule continues 

Some meat factories are facing major disruptions as they begin killing again and a work to rule by Temporary Veterinary Inspectors (TVIs) continues.

How to improve conception rates using sexed semen 

Farmers need to be more dedicated to observing the onset of heat when using sexed semen for it to pay off, new research shows.

Watch: Calf pens that can be lifted with a loader for emptying at manure pit 

Mucking out calf pens just became a whole lot easier with the Topcalf easy cleaning unit that has a unique tilting floor.

Clonakilty heifer Carrigroe Pearl turned heads at Carrick-on-Shannon show 

A West Cork Angus breeder was rewarded for travelling almost the length of the country to Carrick-on-Shannon, with “the best heifer ever bred” in his herd as she became the sale price-topper, retaining the leading price ranking for the herd for the second consecutive year.

Third-oldest bull proves to be Prince of pageantry — and prices 

Lavally Prince, the third-oldest bull listed, scored on the double for his Co Roscommon breeder when he was judged Champion of the Show and sold for the leading price for a bull at the Irish Angus Society Elite Show and Sale at Carrick-on-Shannon recently.

Meet the 'Baileys farmers' who produce 1.2m litres of milk each year for this iconic drink 

Wicklow dairy farming team Joe and Michael Hayden are fourth-generation dairy farming brothers who have been supplying Baileys through Glanbia for the last 30 years.

Ann Fitzgerald: 'The "vultures" are circling - and we ignore them at our peril' 

When I landed in home from a meeting recently, my husband, Robin, started talking about a TV programme he had just watched, in which vultures had, albeit inadvertently, done a good deed.

Meet the farmer with 40,000 apple trees 

Producing 5m apples a year is no easy task but it is the norm at Con Traas’s 60ac farm at Moorestown near Cahir in south Tipperary.

Grazed pasture is a high-quality forage but could farmers be getting more out of it? 

The current use of nutritional models in pasture-based systems is extremely limited, according to Teagasc Researcher Michael Dineen speaking at the recent National Dairy Conference.