The Agriculture Minister says he cannot influence the price processors and retailers pay farmers for their produce.

Farming groups are calling on Simon Coveney to intervene, after a drop in the rates being paid by factories and major supermarkets.

Minister Coveney says creating artificial prices in Ireland is not an option. However, he also says farmers deserve a fair margin.

He points out that most Irish beef is consumed outside of Ireland:

Minister Coveney is today attending the National Ploughing Championships in Co Laois. 

More than 82,000 people flocked to Ratheniska near Stradbally for the opening day of the three-day event yesterday.

It was the largest ever first day attendance, while good weather conditions in the area are helping attract big numbers again today.