The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has warned of a two-tier agricultural system after a report showed a gulf in earnings between those working in dairy and those in other farm sectors.

Agriculture Minister Michael Creed has said it is very clear that EU member states do not favour co-financing of Pillar 1 direct payments, writes Stephen Cadogan.

IFA sheep chairman John Lynskey has urged factories to adopt a more responsible, longer term approach to ensure the continued supply of quality assured Irish lamb out of season.

The Government wants the European Commission to tap into an €800m superlevy package as part of a major intervention plan to help dairy farmers hit by collapsing incomes.