Farmers have 'mixed feelings' over Budget 2015

The Irish Farmers Association has said it has "mixed feelings" about Budget 2015.

The association's deputy president Tim O'Leary welcomed the 50% increase in the income tax exemption threshold, and the new threshold for leases of 15 years and over.

However, he said he was disappointed with a lack of investment on the spending front.

IFA Deputy President Tim O'Leary said more could have been done to help struggling farmers.

"We welcome the improvements in taxation, particularly on the land leasing and the VAT change," he said, "however, on the capital side, we're disappointed in the rural development plan.

"We don't see enough money in there for a significant loss payment for farmers. There's an income crisis for dry-stock farmers in particular that needs to be addressed."