Farmers close pickets at more meat plants as beef price protest starts winding down.

Farmer pickets were removed from a number of meat plants gates around the country overnight.

Votes at Dawn Grannagh and Carrolls Cross, and ABP Ferrybank, finished in favour of ending pickets at the factory gates last night.

In a statement, the Independent Farmers of Ireland says when added to other protests which have stood down, it's clear the majority have decided the proposal agreed last Sunday provides the best blueprint for the future.

It adds while the proposal is not ideal, it's clear the majority feel it can provide a solid foundation for the future.