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