A decline in the number of farmers, combined with rising demand, has driven up dairy prices in Ireland.
Between September and October, the cost of butter rose by 49 cents per pound to four euros and 23 cents. Full-fat milk now costs three cents more for two liters, while Irish cheddar cheese is up nine cents per kilo.
Denis Drennan, President of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA), explained that the reduced number of farmers, along with population growth, is pushing dairy prices higher. “We’re seeing a global decline in the number of farmers, which means less food is being produced. Economic pressures and rising production costs in recent years are major factors affecting not only farms but also household budgets,” he said.
Drennan also pointed out that the issue is compounded by generational challenges in farming, with fewer young people willing to take up the profession. “According to central statistics, the average income of a dairy farmer dropped by 59 percent last year, impacting farmers’ willingness to continue.”
The Central Statistics Office reported that overall agricultural income declined by 49 percent, or two billion euros, to 2.1 billion euros in 2023. The value of agricultural output at basic prices decreased by 13 percent, or 1.6 billion euros, down to 11.3 billion euros, largely due to lower prices and reduced volumes in key areas like milk and cereals. Milk alone dropped 30 percent in value, or 1.5 billion euros, with prices down 26 percent and production volumes contracting by five percent.
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