ACA says 25% will change or give up in 2005

ONE farmer in four will change their system of farming or give up farming altogether in 2005, predicts Agricultural Consultants Association President Paddy Fitzsimons.

Con-acre and grazing prices declining by one third, and a 2005 surge in forestry on marginal land, are predicted by Mr Fitzsimons, in the ACA Farmers Handbook 2005.

Many of our larger, intensive farmers will benefit from the inflow of East European workers, according to the Cork based consultant.