ICMSA Urges DII to Present Detailed Proposals on Milk Price Crisis

The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) has urged Dairy Industry Ireland (DII) to present their detailed proposals regarding the ongoing milk price collapse. This call follows DII's dismissal of the EU-wide Voluntary Milk Reduction scheme as ineffective, suggesting instead a move towards risk management strategies.

Denis Drennan, President of the ICMSA, expressed skepticism about DII's approach, emphasizing the immediate financial struggles faced by dairy farmers. He highlighted the urgency for practical solutions, noting that farmers are incurring significant losses, with milk prices falling below production costs since September 2025. Currently, prices are reportedly six to seven cents per litre less than production costs, exacerbating the financial strain on farmers.

Drennan criticized the disparity in perspectives between farmers and executives in the dairy sector, pointing out the challenges faced by those directly involved in milk production. He stressed that while executives may view the sector's fundamentals as strong, farmers are experiencing a starkly different reality.

The ICMSA remains in favor of the Voluntary Milk Reduction Scheme, citing its past success. They await DII's proposals for alternative solutions, urging for these to be made available for public scrutiny. Drennan highlighted the need for immediate and effective strategies, given the current economic pressures on dairy farmers.