Comment: Reports around the country indicate that lifting progress is on average between 60% and 70%, a significant improvement on this time two weeks ago. A lot of the crop still to be harvested is on heavier ground and lifting is likely to remain difficult, with more rain forecast.

Good progress has been made in Donegal, where less rain was experienced, but more difficult conditions continue in parts of the southeast. Reasonable yields have been reported so far, with reports of good skin set and dry matter. However, poor harvest conditions have resulted in losses in some regions, which ultimately led to lower saleable yields.

Once again, reports indicate that there is good market demand for lifted crop. Growers are reminded not to rule out supplying the peeling market at this time.

Lifting conditions are still proving very difficult across Europe also. In Belgium, growers are working day and night, but 7% to 10% of crops still have to be harvested, which is extremely late. The Netherlands is also struggling to lift crops, with progress now estimated around 80% to 85%, with more rain forecast. Lifting in the UK is 70% on average, but Scottish lifting has progressed very well and is 95% clear.