BETTER TOGETHER

Co-operatives are still at the heart of rural Ireland, more than a century after the movement was founded to give farmers increased control over their business.

A substantial 82% of farmers questioned for the survey strongly (51%) or slightly (31%) agreed with the assertion that co-ops are still at the heart of the rural community.

* Those with holdings from 40 to 80 acres were strongest in their support with 58% strongly agreeing, 31% slightly agreeing.

* Those in the 80-120 acres category gave 50% strong approval, while those with over 120 acres were 44% in strong support.

* Farmers of that size would be more likely to form their own buying and selling groups, but 36% of them also slightly agree.

The results shows the strength of the agri-societies and the continuing role they are playing in rural Ireland.