Average farm income put at €21,500

The average farm income was €21,500 this year, a drop of 12 per cent since 2011, according to the latest estimates from Teagasc…

The average farm income was €21,500 this year, a drop of 12 per cent since 2011, according to the latest estimates from Teagasc.

The research and advisory body said there were "very significant" variations on individual farms, with major falls in income recorded on dairy and tillage farms.

Wet weather had a particular impact on farming in the east and south, where tillage and dairying are most prevalent.

Income on beef farms increased marginally with prices remaining relatively strong throughout the year.

Teagasc economists predicted that the average farm income would rise next year but said the percentage increase would be in the single digits.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone

  • Listen to In The News podcast daily for a deep dive on the stories that matter

Alison Healy

Alison Healy

Alison Healy is a contributor to The Irish Times