FARMERS REACT WITH ANGER TO CO-OPS PRICE CUT – IFA

Speaking today, IFA’s Dairy Chairman Tom Phelan said the decision by Glanbia and Lakeland to cut their respective milk price was a big blow for farmers.

IFA had lobbied co-ops intensively over the past two weeks, outlining in detail the 10 reasons why they should hold their price.

The IFA Dairy Chairman said, “Today’s decision by both co-ops is unwarranted. Cash flow on dairy farms is critical at this time of the year, with farmers facing increased costs of production across the board.”

“When you consider that Ornua will be paying a €19m year-end operating bonus to member co-ops, up 27% on last year, you’d have to say the decision by Glanbia, in particular, is completely unjustified,” said Tom Phelan.