IFA delegation to join Luxembourg protest over dairy income crisis

COPA, the European farmers union, is to mount a major demonstration in Luxembourg on June 22 to demand immediate action on dairy farm incomes.

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) has confirmed that a strong delegation representing dairy farmers in Ireland will attend.

It follows calls by COPA on the European Commission to solve the dairy market crisis by fully using the market management instruments at its disposal.

IFA leader Padraig Walshe, who will lead the Luxembourg demonstration as COPA president, said the dairy income crisis in Ireland is being replicated right across EU-member states.

“By coming together to demonstrate outside the Council of Agriculture Ministers’ meeting in Luxembourg on June 22, COPA will be sending a strong, united message from European dairy farmers for commission action to deal with the crisis,” he said.

Teagasc also announced yesterday that the theme for Moorepark ‘09 on June 18 – New Thinking for Challenging Times – will reflect the challenges and opportunities facing dairy farmers and the industry.

Dr Pat Dillon, Head of the Teagasc Dairy Production Research Centre Moorepark, said the 2009 milk production season is putting severe financial pressure on dairy farmers through a combination of low milk prices and poor weather conditions.

The Moorepark open day, which is supported by FBD Trust – the overall sponsors – conference is entitled Surviving 2009 and Beyond.

An extensive display of practical demonstrations, products and services has also been organised.