Minister Heather Humphrey described the news as deeply disappointing.

The new contracts were announced at the National Ploughing Championships earlier this week, at which ALDI showcased produce supplied to its 160-stores by its nationwide network of suppliers.

Lakeland Dairies have launched a campaign on shareholding gender balance.

During the year, Lakeland Dairies distributed €1.1bn in payments to milk supplying farms across 16 counties.

Michael Hanley had a distinguished career, spanning over 35 years with the co-operative.

'Sentiment among dairy buyers and consumers is severely challenged in line with increasingly volatile markets'

The Connelly family from Tuam in Galway were named as the overall winners of the competition.