Potato production stopped due to 'sharp slump' in sales

Farmers say it comes amidst rising energy and seed costs

A farm in the south of the Island is stopping potato production due to a ‘sharp slump’ in local sales.

Ballaquinney Farm, in Ronague, says it comes amidst rising costs.  

Farmers Maurice and Kevin Coole shared the news on social media saying it hasn’t been an ‘easy decision’ to make.

They’ve blamed the continued rise in energy, fertiliser and seed costs saying a ‘high risk’ crop like potatoes is becoming ‘too expensive’ to risk growing.

“We would like to thank all our customers who have supported us over the last 50 years and those who support local produce in general.”

Potatoes from Ballaquinney Farm will be available until the end of the summer. 

The farmers add: “We are looking forward to future projects.”