Intensive talks to set an emissions reduction target for agriculture are continuing.

There was an expectation that the Government would sign off on the sectoral targets at Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, but that latest deadline was missed.

As the Irish Farmers Journal went to print, it is understood that draft documents were being prepared and agreed by Government officials on a reduction target for agriculture of 24% to 25%.

While it is expected that party leaders could reach a consensus on a target this Thursday, a backbench revolt cannot be ruled out across any of the three Government parties.