The move by Lakeland Dairies to increase its July milk price has been welcomed by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).

Commenting, the IFA National Dairy Committee chairman Tom Phelan said:

“This move by Lakeland is welcome, and confirms that the recent market value improvements means that co-ops can, and must increase prices for July milk.

The other co-ops will be setting their prices over the coming days, and we encourage them to follow Lakeland’s example and return at least an additional 1c/L to their suppliers.

Last week, the IFA highlighted international milk price comparisons which showed that Irish milk purchasers were performing below par.

The three participating co-ops Kerry, Dairygold and Glanbia respectively came in at €1/100kg for Kerry, and €2/100kg for Dairygold and Glanbia, below the average for the leading European processors.

Price boost for Lakeland suppliers

Earlier today, Thursday, August 13, a spokesperson for Lakeland Dairies said:

In the Republic of Ireland, a base price of 31c/L including VAT will be paid for milk supplied in July. This represents an increase of 1c/L on the June price.

In Northern Ireland, a base price of 25.25p/L will be paid for July milk. This is an increase of 1p/L on the June price, the co-op added.