Difficult time for farming industry
DEFA Minister Geoffrey Boot has urged farmers not to panic as a 'crisis' period of weather continues to hit the industry.
A long winter followed by many weeks without rain has caused a supply shock domestically and further afield.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has given farmers a 10% advance in agricultural subsidies to boost cash flow through the drought.
But there are fears livestock owners could be selling up to cover the shortfall - which will have an knock-on impact on business at the meat plant.
Speaking on last night's Countryside programme, Mr Boot said it was a difficult time.

Ard-Shirveishagh hopes he's given members enough time to consider 'Charter for Change'
Live video streaming 'significant step' in making parliament more accessible
Treasury: 'Challenging to justify support for heating oil customers'
Increase of more than 500 patients for mental health services over last 12 months