The Irish Government ramped up political efforts this week in a bid secure additional support from Brussels for farmers.

This includes direct payments for beef farmers and the introduction of private storage aid for cheese, skim milk powder and butter.

The move comes as beef quotes here hit a 10-year low and the price of butter and skim milk powder on global markets falls towards intervention levels.

Cullinan called on the minister to make available the €24m that was allocated to the BEAM scheme but never drawn down

Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed has written to Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski, calling for earlier CAP payments and an easing of inspections, as well as flexibility for rural development payments.

The Irish Farmers Journal understands that political support is being sought for a range of measures ahead of the next meeting of EU agriculture ministers on 27 April.

IFA president Tim Cullinan said he made it clear in a meeting with Minister Creed on Wednesday that, pending a response from Brussels, it is essential the Irish Government put in place measures immediately.

Cullinan called on the minister to make available the €24m that was allocated to the BEAM scheme but never drawn down.

France has written to Brussels seeking approval for its compensation scheme for farmers to cut milk supply.