Family farm incomes to rise 5% next year: Teagasc review

Incomes improved considerably on cattle farms in Ireland in 2015, but those of dairy farmers’ declined dramatically. That sums up the annual performance review of the agriculture sector conducted by a team of Teagasc economists.

Excellent weather in 2015 meant growing conditions were better than normal, which boosted grass growth and cereal yields.

Lower input expenditure has been a feature of all grassland enterprises in 2015, driven by lower levels of feed and fertiliser use, as well as reduced feed and fuel prices.