IFA Comment on Tirlán Grain Price
Commenting on the announcement of grain prices for harvest 2026 from Tirlán, IFA Grain Chair John Murphy said that while global grain prices were challenged the price set by Tirlán would leave many grain farmers, particularly those on rented land, in a loss-making situation.
“Tirlán purchase and utilise a very significant quantity of Irish grain but if the prices paid this harvest for cereals continue for another year into 2027 then the Irish tillage sector will become unviable,” John Murphy continued.
With the cost of inputs and operating machinery, a base price of €210/t for green barley and €220/t green wheat leaves a tiny margin on owned land and a negative return on rented land.
“Growers have endured four very challenging years since 2023 with no let up. Unfortunately, these prices for cereals, will not encourage tillage farmers out into the fields to plant crops for 2027 and I have no doubt some will not be in a financial position to sow either,” the IFA Grain Chair said.
“IFA remains adamant that Government support remains essential in ensuring the tillage sector survives this prolonged period of very low market returns.”
“While much of the Tirlan intake qualifies for a premium grain bonus, it is very disappointing to see a price of €218/t for malting barley – the original premium crop.”
“This harvest, growers will really be questioning whether the malting/brewing/distilling sector value the high-quality grains that Irish tillage farmers produce for their industry,” John Murphy said.
An oilseed rape price of €510/t is the one piece of genuine, good news in yesterday’s announcement, at yields of 1.9-2.0t/ac this crop leaves a sustainable margin for many growers even at current land rental prices.
