IFA seeks farm consolidation relief

THE IFA is seeking a targeted farm consolidation relief in the 2006 Budget to help farmers increase the size of their holdings to meet international competition.

IFA president John Dillon said farmers and their families are being confronted by daunting challenges to their businesses and futures. The outcome of CAP Reform, WTO talks on international trade and increasing environmental regulation present a formidable combination of competitive pressures.

Government must allow farmers to build their capacity to compete and generate income levels comparable with other sectors, he said.