Cheap maize and “dumping” of British grain have kept Irish grain prices under pressure as the harvest draws to a close.

Brexit is now six weeks away, and a crash out could effectively wall UK grain out of the EU. Reports are of UK grain being offered at “knockdown prices” to feed mills.

Prices have also continued to come under pressure internationally as the US maize harvest defies early predictions. Despite a late spring and heavy rains at planting time in key regions, the crop seems to be holding up well.

Many are pointing to the importance of technology in helping US corn crops, and those in Canada and across South America.

Wheat and barley are top-quality this year, and priced competitively

CRISPR gene editing is now as significant as GM events. EU farmers are still denied the benefits of such technology.

The effect on Irish grain prices has been negative. IFA grain chair Mark Browne wants mills to prioritise Irish grain and protein sources. “With the focus on Origin Green, for dairy beef and lamb in particular, Irish grain should be used in rations,” he said. “Wheat and barley are top-quality this year, and priced competitively.”

Irish Grain Growers (IGG) chair Bobby Miller believes Irish farmers need to know what they are buying. “It must be compulsory that the full inclusion rate of ingredients is carried on all blends and rations,” he said.

“The country of origin should also be carried, or we’ll miss a glorious opportunity to make Irish meat truly Irish. Imported maize and straights such as palm kernel have a high carbon footprint.”