Nitrates derogation monitoring
Jackie Cahill suggested monthly statements for farmers in derogation so they could track stocking rates under the new nitrogen limit. The Taoiseach called it sensible, said he would raise it with the Minister, and stressed the need to protect the derogation.
On 1 January this year, the limit for derogation was reduced from 250 kg N/ha to 220 kg N/ha. Individual farmers are finding it very hard to calculate their exact position. With banding and the allowance for feeding low-protein feeds, they find it hard to know what their exact stocking rate is. Will the Department of agriculture send a statement to each farmer in derogation for each month from June onwards in order that farmers can know the exact position and will not exceed the new imposed limit?
Comment on this
It is a very sensible suggestion from Deputy Cahill. I will convey it to the Minister, Deputy McConalogue, and ask him to revert to the Deputy. The next big thing on which we all need to unite and pull together is making sure we maintain the derogation. The first step in Ireland's national effort regarding that is the European elections on Friday week when we need to elect MEPs who understand the importance of it.