Dairy Farmers Express Discontent Over Kerry Group's Top-Up Payment
Source: The DairyNews
Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) dairy chair, Stephen Arthur, has voiced dissatisfaction with the Kerry Group's top-up payment, stating that it falls short, and is urging for additional payments.
Beginning Friday, January 5, the processor will pay 1c/L, including VAT, for all qualifying milk solids supplied between July and December 2023.
While Arthur acknowledges any payment is welcome amid rising costs, he highlights Kerry Group's lag in delivering sufficient compensation throughout the year.
Examining the production costs versus the current milk prices, Arthur emphasizes the disadvantage faced by Kerry dairy farmers, calling for a more favorable price to support struggling farmers.
The Kerry Group faced protests last year as farmers expressed frustration over being paid 3.7c/L less than suppliers of the neighboring processor Dairygold for the first five months of 2023.
Despite Kerry Group confirming a fixed price of 35c/L for November milk supplies, inclusive of VAT, with a base price of 32c/L and a milk contract payment of 3c/L, Arthur argues that more needs to be done.
While Arthur acknowledges any payment is welcome amid rising costs, he highlights Kerry Group's lag in delivering sufficient compensation throughout the year.
Examining the production costs versus the current milk prices, Arthur emphasizes the disadvantage faced by Kerry dairy farmers, calling for a more favorable price to support struggling farmers.
The Kerry Group faced protests last year as farmers expressed frustration over being paid 3.7c/L less than suppliers of the neighboring processor Dairygold for the first five months of 2023.
Despite Kerry Group confirming a fixed price of 35c/L for November milk supplies, inclusive of VAT, with a base price of 32c/L and a milk contract payment of 3c/L, Arthur argues that more needs to be done.
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