The IFA is helping to co-ordinate efforts on the ground to relieve difficulties faced by some farmers.

Frozen water pipes, lambing capacity and milk collections are all causing problems.

There are reports from North Wexford of shed roofs that have caved in due to the weight of snow on them.

IFA president Joe Healy appealed to farmers who have spare capacity in their sheds to make it available to neighbours with newborn lambs.

He also called on co-ops to hold the February milk price to support dairy farmers through the horrendous impact of the snow storm.

“Interrupted milk collections, increasing milking times, difficulties keeping animals fed, watered and warm are only some of the challenges dairy farmers are facing through the snow storm,” Healy said.

“Co-ops have understandably not been able to maintain collection frequency since Tuesday, and in many cases those have been altogether interrupted. While many farmers have capacity for four milkings in their tanks, they are now all coming under severe pressure. Farmers need to be able to count on their co-ops to make a supportive decision on milk price for February supplies to help them through this very difficult time.”

Farmers and their families are encouraged to take extra safety precautions, wrap up, wear hi-vis clothing and let someone know where you are going if you have to venture out. Also take a fully charged phone with you.

Healy reminded farmers who are alone at this time, and struggling to access services, supplies or fodder to make contact with their local IFA branch for support, where necessary.

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