This is a subscriber-only article
Farm Relief Services’ (FRS) rates for farm labourers have increased as competition for workers becomes more intense.
An Irish Farmers Journal price survey shows that the average base rate for general FRS operators is now €13/hour (excluding VAT) on an ordinary weekday.
However, both the charges, which are set by each individual FRS office, and the level of increase, vary widely.
The highest charge for general farm operatives is in the south of the country, where the majority of large dairy herds are located
Base rates quoted to the Irish Farmers Journal ranged from €11.50 to €15/hour. The variation is due to several factors, including labour demand and the worker’s own experience.
The highly seasonal nature of farm work and competition from other sectors, like construction, mean supply of workers lags behind demand.
Rising insurance premiums and an increase in the minimum wage are adding to the costs FRS centres are facing, which is reflected in climbing operator charges.
The highest charge for general farm operatives is in the south of the country, where the majority of large dairy herds are located.
FRS chief executive Peter Byrne said the ongoing shortage of labour meant innovative solutions were needed: “We have over 1,500 guys working for us. There are several advantages for them, with no long commutes and reasonable, flexible hours.”
Byrne recommended that farmers consider dividing up work into areas such as calf rearing or milking, and seeking workers for those specific areas rather than employing a general operator.
Rates for relief milking also varied across different regions, with various pricing structures in place.
The national average stands at €50 for a single milking lasting two hours.
SHARING OPTIONS: