Farmers' incomes could drop further under EU plans

Farmers have been dealt another blow which could see their incomes drop further under EU plans to end export refunds.

The news coincides with the ongoing demonstration by farmers, who fear their livelihoods could be wiped out unless the powers that be in Brussels are convinced that the sector here is facing a crisis.

ICMSA (Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association) members begin a 24-hour protest action outside Government buildings on Monday to highlight the plight of farmers.

Association President Pat O'Rourke says EU commissioner Franz Fischler is aware of the difficulties here, but believes he is being misled about the seriousness of the situation by Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh.

"At our most recent meeting with the commissioner he did accept that Irish family income was down in comparison to other European countries, but the action by the minister this week is going to make our job, which is convincing the commissioner, more difficult," he said.