Centenary Grain Prices Bring Modest Relief to Struggling Irish Farmers

Centenary Cooperative has announced grain prices for harvest 2026, sparking a mixed reaction from Ireland's tillage farmers. IFA Grain Chair John Murphy said base prices of €216/t for green barley and €228/t for green wheat are better than expected but still not enough to cover costs.

The recent improvement in global grain markets is reflected in these prices, according to Murphy. However, the high cost of machinery and fertilizers remains a major concern for farmers, who may struggle to break even this season.

The IFA Grain Committee has called on other grain merchants and co-operatives to match or exceed Centenary's base prices in the coming weeks. The committee also reiterated its support for government aid to help the tillage sector survive the current economic pressures.