IFA Pigs Committee Chairman Pat O’Flaherty said: “Irish pig producers are currently making losses of up to €10 on every pig they sell.

"This is simply not sustainable and prices must rise to a level that provides a margin for the producer."

Mr O'Flaherty emphasised the importance of export markets in the industry, as Irish pig producers export approximately 50 per cent of our pig meat.

He added: "Processors are claiming that it is proving more difficult to sell product into these export markets.

"We have failed to secure new markets following the Russian ban and famers’ profitability is suffering as a result.

"The Minister must ensure that Bord Bia works harder to promote Irish pig meat on international markets.’’

Mr O'Flaherty praised the achievement of Irish pig producers, who surpassed the production targets set out in the Food Harvest 2020 strategy despite considerable economic constraints over this period.

However, he said: "There is also a growing concern that processing capacity is not keeping pace with output.

"This issue must be immediately addressed as output continues to grow as a result of production efficiencies.’’