Hill farmers struggle with low income plight

Hill farmers need a reversal of cutbacks which have driven farmers out of the sector, says IFA hill chairman Pat Dunne.

Average farm income in hill areas is €16,338, with direct payments representing 100% or more of the income, according to Teagasc figures.

Mr Dunne said the issues facing the sector will be discussed in detail at next Monday’s IFA Hill sheepfarmers’ forum in Newport, Co Mayo.

“A concerted campaign across a wide range of areas will be necessary to deal with the low-income crisis and decline in hill farmer numbers,” he said.

“Recent cutbacks to farm schemes and other vital supports have hit hillfarmers more than most.”

IFA has invited speakers from Teagasc, Bord Bia, meat factory representatives, Aurivo Co-operative Marts, and the Department of Agriculture to address the forum.

IFA president Joe Healy will launch an action plan for hill areas covering all of the key policy issues imposing on hillfarming.

He said: “At the forum meeting, which will take place in Nevins, Newfield, Tiernaur, Newport, from 5pm there will be a full debate with speakers covering all of the main market and production issues as well as all of the policy issues.”