Weather takes heavy toll on some vegetable crops

POTATO harvesting has been halted by rain in the north east, where some vegetable crops may be lost.

North County Dublin is worst affected by last week’s downpour of more than 80mm.

IFA Potato Committee chairman John Sheridan said more than 60% of potatoes were still in the ground, compared to 20% this time last year. “Farmgate prices must reflect the additional costs from reduced yields, field losses and significantly lower harvesting rates,” he said.