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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Oct 1995

Vol. 457 No. 1

Written Answers. - Excess Phosphorus in Water.

James Leonard

Question:

183 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has to carry out a study on the way in which excess phosphorus, which is so damaging to our water sources, can be utilised. [15073/95]

I am not aware of a scientific means of utilising excess phosphorus content in water and I have no proposal for studies on it. My Department's policy is designed to reduce the build up of excess phosphorus in agricultural land which might leach into waterways. This includes the promotion of nutrient management planning on farms benefiting under the Department's Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS).

Teagasc's research programme has a priority rating for a study of the environmental impact of phosphorus with the emphasis on quantifying phosphorus losses from fields and farmyards to surface water, identifying the critical factors influencing those losses and reviewing phosphorus recommendations. Improved codes of practice for the sustainable use of phosphorus in agriculture will be developed. Advisory work is aimed at encouraging good farm practice in fertiliser application by regular soil testing and appropriate use of the results.
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