IFA seeks extra €500m yearly to protect farm sector

The Irish Farmers' Association is seeking an extra €500m from the Government every year to protect the future of the agriculture sector.

The association proposed a range of initiatives including new tax-relief schemes, improved early-retirement options, extra financial aid for young farmers and a modernisation programme to improve competitiveness.

The IFA says this would cost around €500m every year, but would protect a vital part of the Irish economy that employs tens of thousands of people.

The association is also seeking a one-off investment of €100m over three years to improve efficiency in the dairy sector.