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Soil Fertility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013

Wednesday, 18 September 2013

Questions (1174)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

1174. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will outline the data available to him regarding soil fertility levels, including soil phosphorus levels; the action his Department have taken on this matter in recent months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37385/13]

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Written answers

Research has shown that a high proportion of Irish soils may be deficient in either phosphorus, potassium and other plant nutrients, which means that production may be limited on these soils. It is important to note that low pH (low lime levels) is also an issue on Irish soils and can reduce plant uptake of phosphorus.

Phosphorus and nitrogen application rates are controlled by the Nitrates Regulations. However, there is no limit on the use of potassium or lime or other important plant nutrients such as sulphur.

Based on Teagasc data there has been a substantial decline in phosphorus Index 4 soils over the past five years which is desirable from an environmental point of view and does not have a negative agronomic impact. There has also been a fall in Index 3 soils and an increase in the level of Index 1 and 2 soils over this period.

The required four yearly review of the Nitrates action programme is taking place this year. Minister Hogan, with whom responsibility for these regulations rests, and I invited all relevant stakeholders to make submissions during the consultation period earlier this summer. Soil Phosphorous levels were raised in a number of submissions. The review of these submissions is ongoing and will be completed before the year end.

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