The IFA says farmers are increasingly concerned about their incomes as the organisation begins voting for a new president today. 

75,500 members will take part in the ballot which was sparked after controversy over pay deals at the organisation's executive. 

The election will run until the 15th of April with three candidates - Henry Burns, Joe Healy and Flor McCarthy - all vying for the top job.

Jer Bergin, the IFA's returning officer, says a drop in farming income has dominated the election to date and he expects the issue to be the main focus of the incoming president:

“By far the biggest issue is the farming income situation. We’ve seen a steady decline in farm incomes over the past number of years, we estimate 4% for 2015. We’re seeing it across most enterprises," said Mr Bergin.

“That is the issue that has dominated meetings and I think there is no doubt there’s a very clear message for the next president and deputy president of the association".