The contrast in fortunes between the suckler and dairy sectors is clearly represented in our reports on two demonstration herds this week.

Jack Kennedy reviews the Greenfield dairy farm summary financials. After investing a total of €1.3m in late 2009, shareholders could walk away and clear all debts if the business finished now. This result includes full labour, bank repayments and stock purchase.

Darren Carty reviews the financial performance of the Newford Suckler herd in Athenry, where last year the herd lost over €60,000 if you include full labour and production costs.

Both enterprises are working on leased land but both also operate without a basic payment. The suckler result highlights the vulnerability of the sector and the challenges faced.