Farming groups pleased as average farm income returns to €17,500

FARM groups have reacted positively to CSO figures showing a 46% rise in 2010 farm incomes versus 2009, but say these figures ignore soaring energy costs.

The IFA and ICMSA both said the return of the average farm income to €17,500 augurs well for the food sector, which will need to retain manpower to meet the state’s increased production and export goals. The income gains over disastrous 2009 figures were matched by production increases.

Minister of Agriculture Brendan Smith, said: ‘‘The increase in income was strong in cereals where improved prices resulted in an 88.8% rise in the output value of the sector to €202 million, the second highest annual figure in 15 years.