IFA says study shows agriculture has grown in professionalism

Agriculture has grown in professionalism according to preliminary figures unveiled in a 10-year CSO study of the sector, said IFA president John Bryan.

Mr Bryan said: “The information provided by farmers and analysed by the CSO gives a valuable picture of farming in Ireland today.

“The figures show an improvement in the overall farm structure over the last decade, with larger herd sizes for dairy and beef, and a significant increase in the area of cereals planted per farm. However, in the context of the targets in Food Harvest 2020, land mobility continues to be a challenge.”

The CSO’s study of Irish agriculture from 2000 to 2010 shows a growth in farm sizes across almost all categories. While the number of farms dipped from 141,527 in June 2000 to 139,829 in August 2010, this coincided with a growth in the sector’s contribution to Ireland’s GDP. Agri-food accounts for 8% of GDP, with primary agriculture accounting for 3%. The sector’s €9bn annual exports are set to reach €12bn by 2020.

Mr Bryan added: “The difficulties experienced over the last decade in the sheep sector are reflected in the fall in flock numbers. However, the improved price environment for sheep of 2010 and 2011 has reversed this trend, with an increase in output recorded in 2011.”

IFA chief economist Rowena Dwyer said: “Further Census releases from the CSO will be provided in 2012 with greater detail on farm structures, age profile, output and labour inputs. This data is critical to support policymaking both here in Ireland and as part of the CAP post-2013 negotiations.”