Producers gain at consumers expense as prices rise

Food and drink industry experts predict that 2008 will be a strong year for producers.

The sector is expected to grow to €15bn, with exports of fine Irish produce fuelling the performance.

However rising farm gate prices are expected to push our own grocery bills up.

The chief executive of An Bord Bia Aidan Cotter has predicted the increases won't harm business prospects.

He said: "I think it will be positive for the industry because we are an export orientated industry. We are significant players on the world market and it is a world market return coming back into the Irish economy - its good news for the Irish economy."