The implementation of the nitrates directive is, in the first instance, a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. My officials engaged in discussions over the past few years with officials from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on further implementation of the nitrates directive, which is a legal obligation.
A draft action programme prepared by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in conjunction with my Department and in consultation with Teagasc, was presented in December last to representatives of the main farming organisations and other stakeholders.
Written submissions on the draft action programme have been received from some 70 stakeholders. I am giving consideration to the issues raised in the submissions in consultation with my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, having regard to the need to finalise the terms of the action programme at an early date and submit definitive proposals to the European Commission.
The draft action programme was also discussed at a meeting between officials of the two Departments and the farming pillar under Sustaining Progress. The two Departments will be in contact with the farming organisations again in due course.
In proceeding with an action programme the two Departments must also have regard to the outcome of the recent decision of the Court of Justice on the implementation of the directive. The plan must, therefore, have the following fundamental aims: minimise the disruption to farmers observing good farming practice; protect all CAP support payments — the Commission has indicated that the continuation of such payments is contingent upon an acceptable action plan being put in place; and avoid further court proceedings by the European Commission. Compliance with the directive has also been specified as one of the conditions for farmers' participation in the single payment scheme following the decoupling of farm supports from production.
I am anxious, therefore, that definite proposals be agreed and submitted to the European Commission in the near future.