He said that farmers have helped grow the economy and for this they need to be recognised and rewarded.

"Farmers have delivered for through increased output, jobs and export earnings," he said. "Our high-quality farm produce has lifted food exports, which are up by 45% since 2009 to €10.5bn, but farmers are not seeing the benefits in their pockets.

“Product prices have risen, but by nowhere near enough to offset the rise in input costs and the cuts to Direct Payments in particular, while the constant downward pressure by retailers on our returns is impacting hard”.

Downey said that farm profitability comes down to farmers getting a fair price and laid out a 10-point plan of action.

This plan includes a call for the early opening of GLAS and the reversal of cuts to farmers in Disadvantaged Areas. It also includes plans for a new Charter of Farmers Rights to reduce costly and stressful administration.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny will speak at the IFA AGM dinner on this evening at the Red Cow Hotel.

The Minister Simon Coveney is expected to address the AGM on Wednesday at 9.30am at the Irish Farm Centre. The opening of GLAS and farm safety are topics the Minster may explore during his speech.

Visit www.farmersjournal.ie for updates during the AGM.