Farmers need targeted supports as they're facing most pain

The average farmer faces extra costs of more than €18,000 this year — that’s many multiples of the average household, writes Kieran Coughlan

When farmers suffer, it’s only a matter of time before the consumer will be affected by food inflation or availability. Picture: Stephen Collins/Collins

I can well understand the frustration of farmers across the country and am not surprised that many, at a grassroots level, feel compelled to take action, including the protests on main roadways and arteries to our cities and at ports and fuel depots.

For the average member of the public, the increase in kerosene, diesel, and petrol has hit the pocket.