Protests by sheep farmers outside processing plants ended today after manufacturers quoted higher prices for lamb, the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) said.
IFA President John Dillon confirmed that talks had taken place over the past two days between local suppliers and management at the individual plants.
As a result managers re-opened plants at Irish Country Meats Camolin, Co Wexford and Navan, Co Meath; Kepak in Athleague, Co Roscommon and Hacketstown, Co Carlow; Dawn Meats in Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo and Kildare Chilling in Co Kildare.
Mr Dillon said the strong stance taken by sheep farmers in defence of their livelihoods over the last week had put down a marker that there was only so much they could take.
The farmers began their protest a week ago over what they said were "massive" cuts in the price of spring lamb, which amounted to a drop of up to almost €20 per animal.
IFA National Sheep Committee Chairman Laurence Fallon said he understood that the sheep farmers had removed their protests and the factories were quoting prices of €4.75 per kg plus a six cent per kg (4p) bonus for U grades for lambs into next week.
PA
