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Many farmers are nervously waiting for the announcement of April milk prices and expect the withdrawal of March support payments.
The IFA National Dairy Committee chairTom Phelan, has urged co-ops to set a ‘supportive tone’ for April milk prices.
“At last week’s National Dairy Committee meeting, members commented very critically on how some of the largest milk purchasers, who set milk prices earliest each month, use their influence on milk prices,” Phelan said.
I call on all co-ops this month to prove them wrong
“I call on all co-ops this month to prove them wrong, and to continue to support milk prices in spite of challenging – though improving – market returns.
“Co-ops have already cut their base price significantly in March and, as they supported the March pay-outs, this will only now hit farmers.
Fodder shortages will depress milk cheques
“Poor grass growth conditions well into April and continued fodder shortages will depress milk cheques through lower volumes and poorer constituents,” he warned.
Phelan stated he has written to every co-op to call on their support for farmers and “continue supporting milk prices to sustain farmers and supplies.”
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