Big freeze leaves farmers with losses of €15m as potato harvest destroyed

THE big freeze has left farmers with losses of more than €15 million because they can’t harvest potatoes still in the ground.

Rain storms and floods in late November and early December and now the icy conditions have prevented the harvesting of some 6,000 acres of potatoes countrywide. The Irish Farmers Association described the impact of the harsh winter on producers as devastating with fears that at least 75% of the crops will be lost due to frost damage. Now, there are fears that the losses will lead to a reduced supply of potatoes in the shops unless temperatures rise and ground conditions improve.

IFA Potato Committee vice-chairman Thomas Carpenter said the situation is a wipeout for growers who endured a very difficult season with low prices for their produce, rising input costs and the worst weather conditions for years. “The losses will result in a 20% reduction in marketable produce and retailers must respond immediately by paying a viable price to producers for crop in store,” he said.

Mr Carpenter also called on Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith to address the issue and come forward with a support package for those farmers worst affected. The IFA said the situation regarding field vegetable crops such as brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots and celery was being monitored. Growers have been unable to harvest these crops in the last few weeks and are not yet in a position to estimate their losses. In addition, it said some winter tillage crops, especially winter oats, are becoming vulnerable to severe frost damage following the extended cold spell.

* Due to the icy conditions, the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association has postponed its annual general meeting and conference due to take place tomorrow night (Thursday) in the Strand Hotel, Limerick.

The AGM has been re-scheduled for January 28, with the Agriculture Minister invited to attend.