Contract talks between Department and knackeries remain deadlocked

A stand-off is developing between the Department of Agriculture and the knackeries, over the payment rates for fallen animals.

The contract governing the collection of fallen animals expires at the end of September, but the Department and knackeries have yet to agree a new deal.

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that a proposed price increase was tabled by the knackeries at a recent meeting, but was rejected by the Department.

“The ask was too much,” a person with knowledge of the talks said.

There have also been suggestions that the contribution made to the collection fees by farmers could be increased.

However, such a move is likely to be strongly opposed by the farm organisations.

The current collection fee costs to farmers range from €30 for sheep and calves under three months.

For calves aged three months to six months the cost is €35, and €50 for those from six months to 12 months.

The charge is €80 for one- to two-year-old cattle; €100 for cattle from two- to four-years-old, and €54/head for all cattle above this age.