Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 March 2021
1045. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if recognition will be given to farmers who participate in either aerobic digestion or biomass processes, either on-site or at a larger off-site location for the reduction in their nitrates and phosphate emissions; if so, the way in which this will be administered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13520/21]
View answerThe Department of Housing, Planning, Local Government and Heritage is the competent authority for the Nitrates Regulations (S.I. 605 of 2017 as amended). This regulation obliges farmers to keep within the limits set out of 170 kgs of Nitrogen from livestock manure per hectare (or 250 kgs/ N/ha for those who hold a Nitrates Derogation.)
Measures farmers can take to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus on their holding include exporting of livestock manure, renting of additional land or the movement of stock. Where livestock manure is exported off the holding and the correct records are submitted to DAFM within the time period allowed, credit is given for that movement. This includes manure sent to an AD facility.
Similarily, where the livestock manure is processed on the holding through an AD facility, it is also recorded and counted for compliance with the limits of the Nitrates regulations.
