Farmers in the southeast are paying the most for fallen animal collection charges.

An Irish Farmers Journal survey shows that the amount a farmer is charged at an animal collection outlet depends on their location. There can be up to a 50% disparity between the highest and lowest prices.

Counties in the northwest have the lowest prices, with €80 being charged for a fallen animal between 24 months and 48 months. The price for a similar fallen animal in the southeast is €125. Calf prices range from €25/calf in the midlands and southwest to €50/calf in the southeast.

State subsidies were taken away from the knackery businesses a number of years ago but they remain in place for animals aged over 48 months. This financial aid sees a 50% drop in the prices being charged for animals aged between 24 months and 48 months to animals aged over 48 months.

Sheep

Knackeries say the lack of profit for the sheep collection service has resulted in a price spike for farmers. The price for fallen sheep to be disposed of is either as high as €50 for some farmers or they have to deliver their sheep to the business site themselves.

IFA animal health chair Bert Stewart accused the Department of Agriculture of failing to provide a competitive fallen animal collection service. After visiting Holland, he provided the Department with details of an alternative approach involving far lower fees for farmers.