IFA warns grain production’s future in doubt as returns fall below costs

AS fine weather boosted harvest work in many parts of the country yesterday, the Irish Farmers Association warned that the future of grain production is in doubt for many growers.

Crop returns for two years running will fall well below the cost of production, it said, pointing out that that between 40,000ha and 50,000ha of land is estimated to have disappeared from grain production after last year’s harvest.

IFA Grain Committee chairman Colum McDonnell said most growers will lose between €40/t to €50/t based on current indicated prices of €90 to €100/t for this harvest.