The Agriculture Minister says he can't directly intervene in a row over beef prices.
The Irish Farmers Association wants Simon Coveney to put pressure on meat factories to increase the rates.
All sides in the dispute are attending talks in Co Kildare this evening - following blockades at a number of plants this week.
The IFA says farming incomes have been decimated over the last 12 months - while beef sales have increased.
Minister Coveney says beef producer groups are being set up to negotiate for farmers:
