Updated 08.40

The chairman of the Irish Farmer's Association Kerry branch says no decision will be made on Pat Smith's severance package until a potential legal case has ended.

Last night the former IFA General Secretary said he wants half of his €2 million to go to charity.

Sean Brosnan, chair of Kerry IFA, told Newstalk Breakfast the move looks like a cynical PR stunt by Smith:

"This is going to go to a legal team, more than likely. There is employment law out there, so I expect that Pat Smith will be entitled to some money so we can't do anything with that money until after that."

Total spin

In a statement, the IFA said Mr Smith demanded the money and is trying to cover it up with this latest move.

The IFA has clarified that Smith did not stand down last week and was in effect, fired, amid controversy over his pay.

IFA President Eddie Downey also resigned over the issue.

The IFA's statement of last night said: "The unapproved package included: a €2m severance, broken down into €1m now and €1m over 10 years paid through IFA."

"This is a total spin. Pat Smith demanded €2m. He is trying to cover it up."

Members need the money

Pat O'Toole of the Irish Farmers Journal says IFA members would rather the €1 million was spent on them:

"The average sheep farmer income last year was less than €12,000, for anyone with a family that is on the poverty line."

"I think the IFA membership would feel that Pat Smith could redistribute the money back among the IFA members as a gesture."

"We could have some good will to close this out, but I strongly doubt it."

The Association has pledged to pursue all legal means in an effort to row back the severance payments.