Irish agricultural output prices were down 2.9 per cent in August when compared to figures released for July. However when compared to the same month last year agriculture output prices increased by 7.1 per cent. This is according to the latest update from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) published this morning. 

Agricultural input prices showed less change over the period with prices decreasing by 1.1 per cent between July and August. The agricultural input prices were up 2.2 per cent in August 2013 compared to 2012.

Some of the key highlights in agricultural output from August’s results were: Cattle output prices (excluding calves) were down three per cent in August when compared with July’s figures. Milk output performed strongly up 3.1 per cent in August on July and up a massive 31 per cent when compared to August 2012.

Important points from August’s agricultural input prices include: electricity that has increased 5.8 per cent between August 2012-2013; feed also showed a significant increase rising 6.4 per cent year on year.

The agricultural price indices are calculated every month by the CSO. It monitors trends in prices paid to farmers for their produce and in prices paid by farmers for purchases of goods and services.

By Ciaran Moran

Image Shutterstock