Eamon Gilmore
Question:145 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the steps he will take to promote alternatives to the use of nitrates as fertiliser; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25116/01]
Written Answers. - Organic Farming.
Nitrogen is an important and essential element in the pro duction of crops. Nitrate based fertiliser is an efficient chemical form through which crops can assimilate nitrogen. There are also other chemical forms of nitrogenous fertilisers which may be converted to the nitrate form in the soil-plant environment. EU and national legislation on the marketing of fertilisers lays down criteria on the formulation and labelling of fertilisers manufactured for sale. The seller is required to give the purchaser, inter alia, a statement showing the analysis of the material. Manufacturers and retailers of fertilisers are under regular supervision by inspectors of my Department to ensure full compliance with their legal obligations and requirements in this area.
In addition, my Department promotes the responsible use of fertilisers in a number of ways. Under the rural environment protection scheme there is a requirement to operate a nutrient management plan. The plan requires the efficient use of nutrients in an environmentally friendly manner. Farmers are encouraged to follow advice from Teagasc and advice in the recently published Good Farming Practice booklet, regarding use of nutrients including nitrogen. Farmers participation in many of the schemes operated by my Department must comply with good farming practice to qualify for aid. Farmers are also encouraged to maximise use of nutrients, including nitrogen in organic wastes produced on the farm. If nitrogenous fertilisers are applied in accordance with the requirements of the REP scheme or good farming practice this will provide sufficient protection for the environment. In the circumstances, I have no specific plans to promote alternatives to the use of fertilisers containing nitrogen in the form of nitrate.