Blighted spud producers on their own

But Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew said she intends to make representations to her colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive in order to address the damage.

Last week the Sentinel reported that some growers may have lost up to 20 per cent of their crop and in extremes cases up to 80 per cent.

With an average potato plantation comprising 100-150 acres and an investment per acre of roughly 2,000 some farmers are facing potential losses of anywhere between 50,000 and 200,000.

And DUP deputy mayor, Maurice Devenney said the recent cold weather had been the worst spell that farmers had faced for 30 years and called for extra help to be provided for those who were struggling.

Addressing the flight of stricken potato producers at Stormont Mrs Gildernew stated: "I am aware that the heavy rainfall and the more recent frost caused great difficulties to many potato growers and my heart goes out to all those affected.

"There are currently no financial support measures available for potato growers and my Department is currently facing significant financial resource pressures across the board. Accordingly, in order not to raise expectation, my Department has not assessed loss at this time.

"I do however intend to make representations to Executive colleagues, and if agreement can be reached and money found, I will direct officials to assess the damage and resulting financial loss from the bad weather."