DEAR SIR: It was with a raised eyebrow of curiosity I read in last week’s publication (Irish Farmers Journal 10 March), of the €7,500 pay increase to Glanbia board members.

Such curiosity pondered – was this increase due to increased qualification or experience as is the norm, or increased cash surpluses within the business?

However, with the jingle of an incoming text message on Monday 12 March, the harsh reality set in that this was simply an act of nepotism – to look benevolently upon one’s self and one’s associates without any due consideration to the greater majority of co-op members.

In recollection of the previous week where such remuneration increases came to light in the paper, one must realise the cloak-and-dagger approach to timing.

Was it simply coincidence that these increases were passed when most publications were commending GII, its hauliers, staff and of course the 20c/litre rebate for spilled milk in the aftermath of Storm Emma? Unlikely, to say the least.

By open admission, I am not the overtly religious type. I do, however, remember its teachings such as “do unto others as you would like done unto you”.

A simple commandment for one to live one’s life with honour and respect. It’s my hypothesis that the board members were obviously absent for such teachings.

Viewing said text message that GII was cutting the price of February milk to 32c/l including VAT was like yet another kick in the teeth in this relentless spring of hardships. I feel I am not alone in this disappointment.

The paltry bonus of 1c/l in terms of the adverse weather over the past month is almost offensive in comparison to the €7,500 bonus the board members attributed to themselves considering this 3c/l cut equates to €15,000 cut for a 500,000 litre supplier.