Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA)

The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) is a pivotal organization that plays a significant role in advocating for dairy farmers throughout Ireland. With its headquarters located in Limerick, Ireland, the ICMSA operates as a not-for-profit entity, relying primarily on membership fees, sponsorships, and other funding channels to support its advocacy and operational efforts.

Important Events

Under the leadership of President Denis Drennan, the ICMSA has been actively involved in addressing the challenges faced by the dairy sector. The organization has engaged in significant activities such as policy submissions and dialogues with the government concerning various dairy industry concerns. The ICMSA has been a proactive advocate for sustainable dairy practices and has focused on crucial issues like fluctuating milk prices, stringent environmental regulations, and the complexities of market access post-Brexit.

Recently, the ICMSA expressed cautious approval of the government's decision to enhance the powers of the Agri-Food Regulator, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the food supply chain. The association has urged the European Commission to introduce a Voluntary Milk Supply Reduction Scheme to address market oversupply issues. Additionally, the ICMSA has made formal requests to Minister Heydon for measures to support the dairy sector, specifically highlighting the need to bolster primary producers.

Current Issues and Company Plans

The ICMSA is currently focused on addressing the significant pressure on dairy farmers to meet environmental targets. The association is committed to balancing ecological sustainability with the economic viability of its members. Plans include intensifying advocacy efforts for fair pricing, improved market conditions, and supportive government policies. Looking ahead, the ICMSA intends to strengthen its engagement with international markets and stakeholders to secure favorable conditions for Irish dairy exports.

Moreover, the ICMSA has requested an extension for compliance with nitrates regulations and appealed to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to delay the start date for compliance with the 14% ration rule under the Nitrates Regulations until May 15, citing adverse weather conditions as a rationale for this adjustment.

Furthermore, Irish farmers have expressed discontent over delays in the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS), which has impacted dairy investments and increased uncertainty. The ICMSA has labeled the scheme as 'total mayhem,' highlighting the challenges farmers face in securing timely and adequate support from government schemes designed to enhance agricultural productivity.

Modified: 2026/04/27