Irish Farmers Association chief Eddie Downey steps aside to allow pay review

The announcement that Irish Farmers Association president Eddie Downey was stepping aside to allow a review into the remuneration of its general secretary followed a motion of no confidence by an IFA branch.

Mr Downey was under pressure to resign after general secretary Pat Smith vacated his post following revelations on his remuneration.

It emerged last week that Mr Smith earned €535,000 in 2013: A basic salary of €295,000, a €150,000 pension contribution, a €60,000 bonus, and €30,000 from IFA telecom. Last year, he earned €445,000: A €295,000 basic salary and a €150,000 pension contribution.