Sinn Féin spokesperson for Agriculture and Rural Development Martin Kenny TD has expressed his frustration at the continuing fall in farm incomes. 

His comments come as results from the Teagasc National Farm survey show that the income for suckler farmers have fallen to the lowest levels recorded.

Teachta Kenny said:

“Incomes in farming have been falling for sometime, and the results of this survey now give us figures that government cannot argue against.

“At a time when the cost of living continues to increase, farming incomes have fallen across all farming sectors.

“Sheep and suckler farmers have been particularly affected, and family farm incomes have fallen by 15%.  These farms are the lifeblood of so many rural communities across the country. 

“I come from a rural area of Co Leitrim where these farmers work and live, where they build their families and contribute to their communities.

“Many of these smaller farmers are taking second and third jobs just to keep their families afloat.  Some are simply walking away from the sector because it just isn’t viable anymore – especially with the continued rise they face due to the cost of living crisis.

“Issues with the unreliability of schemes, the increase in production costs, and the inability to get a fair price for their produce has led many to leave the sector, or for their children to make the decision not to take over the family farm.

“We need to see the basics delivered in farming – including fair and timely payment of schemes farmers participate in.

“I am deeply concerned for the future of farming and indeed our rural communities if this continues.  Without a clear roadmap and specific, reliable supports from government and the EU, the exodus from farming will continue.”