Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 July 2023
564. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will commit to ending the nitrates derogation in light of its negative environmental impact; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34734/23]
View answerThe Nitrates directive set down strict scientific criteria in respect to the provision of a Nitrates derogation which include;
• long growing seasons,
• crops with high nitrogen uptake,
• high net precipitation in the vulnerable zone,
• soils with exceptionally high denitrification capacity.
Ireland’s unique grass-based livestock production systems, our climate and our soils allow Ireland justify a nitrates derogation in respect of the above conditions.
In 2022 Ireland secured an extension to our nitrates derogation covering the period to 2025. As part of this process the European Commission attached increased conditionality. Ireland’s nitrates derogation allows farmers operate above a maximum stocking rate of 170 kg of livestock manure nitrogen per hectare subject to compliance with stricter environmental conditions.
Last year also saw the introduction of Ireland’s 5th Nitrates Action Programme. Under that Programme, the scope of some existing measures was broadened, other measures were expanded, and a number of new measures were introduced to drive improvements in water quality. These changes were introduced for farmers in 2022 and earlier this year, however these changes require time to demonstrate their full impact.
Environment Protection Agency data shows nutrient levels remain too high in many of our waters. As a State, we all have to work together to reduce the levels of nutrients in our water. This responsibility extends to farmers, but it also extends to private dwellings on septic tanks as well as Uisce Eireann who are also investing to improve water quality.
I believe it’s appropriate to adopt a science-based approach, targeting the right action in the right place to drive improvements in water quality and support delivery of our overall environmental ambitions, including maintaining Ireland's nitrates derogation.
