Farmers 'terrorised' by vulture funds

Figures from the Irish Farmers' Association estimated that between 2,500 and 3,000 family farms may be in danger of seizure by vulture funds.

Figures from the Irish Farmers' Association estimated that between 2,500 and 3,000 family farms may be in danger of seizure by vulture funds.

The issue of vulture funds circling farms was recently highlighted in the Dáil as The Rural Independent Group moved a Private Members Bill to give solid protections to farms and homes from vulture funds and provide low-interest loans for farmers.

But it failed to secure a Second Reading on a 64-72 vote after the Government opposed it on the grounds that its conditions and requirements would jeopardise farmers' access to finance.