The ArraTipp board has approved a milk price of 36c/l excluding VAT, for April supplies.

This price is inclusive of a sustainability payment of 0.72c/l excluding VAT for April milk.

The co-op's base milk price has increased by 0.59c/l, excluding VAT, compared to March milk supplies.

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Dairygold

The Dairygold board has maintained its April base milk price at 35.41c/, based on standard constituents of 3.3% protein and 3.6% butterfat, inclusive of sustainability and quality payments and excluding VAT.

Global milk supply growth continues to weigh on overall market returns, Dairygold chair Pat Clancy said.

“However, we have seen some encouraging signs in recent weeks, as protein markets continue to strengthen, although this is being offset by weaker returns from butter and cheese. The Dairygold board will continue to monitor markets closely and review milk price on a monthly basis.”

Shareholding

The co-op said that in recognition of the ongoing cost challenges at farm level, it is deferring shareholding deductions for the remainder of 2026 for members who are still in the process of attaining their minimum co-op shareholding.

“We are conscious of the current pressures facing our members, and the board has taken this decision to provide practical support by deferring ‘sharing up’ for the balance of 2026. We will assess the position again later in the year,” Clancy said.

On Friday, Tirlán announced it was holding its price for April at 35c/l excluding VAT. In March it had announced a three-month milk price commitment for March, April and May, "subject to any unforseen events".

Kerry Dairy Ireland, which has since rebranded to Kinisla, held its milk price for April supplies at 35.88c/l, excluding VAT, while Lakeland Dairies announced an increase to 35.40c/l.