ICSA says it will back planned farmer protest

The Irish Cattle & Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA) has said it will support next week's protest by the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA).

ICSA chairman Mr Charlie Reilly said: "Farmers and their organisations have had enough of Minister Walsh's brush-offs".

"I am actively encouraging ICSA members to come out on their tractors along the routes and support the protest".

"ICSA wants to see Minister Walsh acknowledge that farming is in crisis. The average income on a 100-acre, full-time cattle and sheep farm is only €11,000 - this is €15,000 below the average industrial wage", said Mr Reilly.

"Insult has been added to injury with the recent announcement of a 12.5 per cent wage increase for politicians. This cannot be justified when the government has failed to deliver for its farmers with a massive decrease of 12.3 per cent in farm incomes", Mr Reilly added.