There has been much speculation in recent days as to how the remuneration package agreed with Pat Smith compared with that of his predecessor Michael Berkery.

The IFA has confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal that when Michael Berkery stepped down after 25 years at the helm of the organisation and Pat Smith assumed the position, there was a cost saving to the organisation.

According to the IFA, this cost saving was after all bonuses were paid.

Remuneration

On Friday, the IFA revealed that Pat Smith’s remuneration in 2013 was €535,000 and €445,000 in 2014.

The Journal understands that questions are now being raised in relation to the recruitment process surrounding the selection of the former general secretary.

At the time, the interview panel consisted of then-IFA president Padraig Walshe, then-deputy president Derek Deane, then-treasurer Ruaidhrí Deasy and Teagasc director Gerry Boyle.

Senior sources

Having contacted a number of senior sources who specialise in the recruitment of senior executives, they confirmed that it would be exceptionally unusual that internal members of the interview panel would not have been made aware of the pay scale linked with the post.

Derek Deane maintained he was not made aware, while Gerry Boyle confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal that he too was not informed of the pay scale.