Farming

Farmers who take part in Smart Farming save an average of €5,000 per year, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their farms by 7 to 10%. That was one of the headlines from the 2017 launch of the IFA led cost savings programme, which will work with more than 1,000 farmers across 50 discussion groups,

IFA National Sheep Chairman John Lynskey has said lamb prices are rising as supplies are very scarce this week and factories are finding it very difficult to get adequate numbers. He said factories are having to increase Lamb prices from their quotes of €5.15 to €5.20/kg and deals are being done at €5.25, with finishers

IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy said farmers should make their Basic Payment application online in order to benefit from the many advantages in terms of early processing, reduced errors and payment on time within the deadlines set down in the Charter of Farmers Rights. Richard Kennedy said with Basic Payment applications now open for 2017,

IFA National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods said cattle prices remain stable at a base price for steers of €3.80 and a heifer base of €3.90. He said heifer prices are stronger with factories paying between €3.90 and €3.95/kg alone with deals on transport and clipping to get numbers. Angus Woods said bulls are continuing to