ANC flexibility

Speaking following an EU civil dialogue meeting in Brussels last week, rural development chair Joe Brady said there are sufficient flexibilities to protect areas already classified as ANC in the upcoming review. Member states can make a case based on local conditions to ensure that areas retain their status and continue to qualify for payments. The IFA has two upcoming meetings on ANCs in Fermoy (24 February) and Carlow (3 March). See www.ifa.ie for details.

Dog attacks

IFA national sheep chair John Lynskey has appealed to dog owners to keep their pets under control at all times, particularly at this time of year when flocks are more vulnerable to attack. He reminded owners that they liable for any losses as a result of dog attacks, with serious financial and legal consequences. The IFA has a protocol to help farmers who encounter a dog attack, which is available at www.ifa.ie.

Nitrates priorities

IFA president Joe Healy set out the association’s priorities for the forthcoming nitrates review at a meeting with ministers Michael Creed and Simon Coveney last week. The IFA is seeking the continuation of the derogation, a reduction in penalties and rollover of pig and poultry arrangements. The IFA will continue to meet with senior officials from the Department of Agriculture and the European Commission to safeguard farmers’ interests in the nitrates negotiations.

Price information

Did you know that you can get price updates on the IFA website? Prices for cattle and sheep are published twice weekly, while pig and potato prices and commentary are updated on a weekly basis. We also publish regular dairy market analysis. Find the information in the website section for your sector, or follow on Facebook or Twitter.