Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 September 2020
893. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department is actively considering anaerobic and biogas systems as a means by which Ireland can meet its EU Nitrates Directive and EU Water Framework Directive obligations in view of the impact they have in addressing both nitrate emissions and environmental impact on watercourses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25412/20]
View answerMy Department recognises the potential environmental benefits of using Anaernobic Digestion (AD), including climate mitigation, water quality and air quality.
The AD industry in Ireland is at an early stage of development compared to the more established industry in many European countries. Potential for the growth of the AD sector in Ireland is strong but it should be seen as a long term development. Research suggests that there is potential for a significant role for biogas / bio-methane in the decarbonisation of the heat and transport sectors with corresponding climate benefits.
The Nitrates Directive is one of the 11 key Directives encompassed by the Water Framework Directive and is the main agricultural measure included in River Basin Management Plan. Ireland operates the EU Nitrates Directive on a whole territory basis through the implementation of the Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) or Nitrates Regulations (Statutory Instrument No. 605 of 2017). The GAP Regulations provide a considerable environmental baseline which all Irish farmers must achieve and by doing this, Irish farmers are contributing to the sector’s WFD obligations regarding the protection of water quality. The Department of Housing, Planning and Heritage is the lead authority for these regulations with a major role played by DAFM.
The current Nitrates Action Programme is in place to the end of 2021. Ireland will commence shortly a preliminary consultation to review the next Nitrates Action Programme. It is planned to undertake a final consultation with all stakeholders in 2021. The outcome of the review will have to be agreed at a national level and be presented to the EU Commission for approval. The next NAP is anticipated for implementation in January 2022. The review of the NAP will have to consider wider strategic policies such as the Green Deal, Farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategies and the bio-circular economy.
