IFA to decide stance on second Lisbon vote

The Irish Farmers Association is meeting today to decide its position in relation to the second referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.

The IFA initially opposed the treaty ahead of last year's original referendum, but switched to the 'yes' camp 10 days before the vote.

The decision to switch sides followed a promise from the Taoiseach that he would veto any WTO trade deal that was unacceptable to Ireland.

The IFA's executive council is meeting today to decide its stance on the second referendum against a background of doom and gloom in the agriculture sector.

The REPS scheme has already been closed to new applicants and further cuts in agriculture spending have also been recommended by An Bord Snip Nua.

Farmers are also struggling to cope with the falling price they are receiving for milk and other products.