IFA Reaction to Teagasc National Farm Survey

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IFA President Francie Gorman said the Farm Survey Report for 2023 is a vivid reminder of the fragility of farming incomes which took a huge hit last year. Teagasc confirmed that average family farm income in 2023 was less than €20,000, the lowest in over a decade.  

The IFA will hold a pre – Budget meeting tomorrow with the Minister for Agriculture and will highlight the need for the maximum level of supports for farm families.  

“Farm income levels are now at historically low levels, with an average drop of 57% compared to 2022. No sector fared well; tillage and dairy took the biggest hits in terms of overall drop. Sheep and livestock farmers were also heavily impacted with average suckler farmer income now the lowest on record.” 

Mr. Gorman said that weather conditions in the latter half of 2023 played a part in the fall of income and the ongoing impact of the cost base is something that needs to be resolved.  

“Across all enterprises, the pressure on farm families is proving very challenging. The incoming EU Commission should see this as a wake-up call. Expecting food production to continue as normal under these conditions is just not sustainable,” he said. 

Francie Gorman said that further contraction in food production is inevitable unless retailers begin paying fair prices for produce and national and European policies are adjusted to recognise that these farm income levels are not viable.  

 

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