Torrential rainfall over the weekend did not deter large numbers from attending the Beef Plan Movement protest at Kepak Group’s facility in Athleague, Co Roscommon.

Chair Padraig O’Connor said he was heartened to see high numbers maintain a strong presence over the holiday weekend and into the start of this week.

O'Connor told the Irish Farmers Journal: "We have had up to 70 people in attendance during the day and 100 to upwards of 130 at night. This is despite the torrential rainfall and terrible weather.

"The numbers coming out show the level of anger, frustration and also worry that farmers are facing. Some farmers haven’t enough money to pay mounting bills and they are genuinely worried about what they are going to do. Farmers cannot keep going like this.”

The plant operated a lower kill on Tuesday and Padraig is calling on farmers to support their cause and hold off presenting animals for slaughter.

“We have received huge support and backing locally but there were animals presented today that had travelled long distances. We spoke with each lorry driver, explained why we were protesting here and asked them not to cash in on the good work we are doing and to take the message back to producers," he said.

"We hope our message is getting through to more farmers and that we will get unity and support from all producers. We are determined to stay protesting for as long as we have to."

Read more

Beef Plan accuses minister of trying to ‘thwart’ their actions

Watch: day seven of Beef Plan protest in Ballyjamesduff

Beef Plan should abandon ‘illegal’ factory blockades – factories

Watch: Carrigans, Clones and Clonee added to Beef Plan protest venues