Vol. 540 No. 1
223 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he is drawing up a code of practice for farmers; if so, if he will outline progress made in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20159/01]
From the year 2001 EU regulations, establishing common rules on direct payments to farmers and on support for rural development, require my Department to draw up and apply measures to protect the environment.
My Department is currently in the process of finalising requirements for good farming practice. This is designed to encourage good practice farming which cares for the environment and meets minimum hygiene and animal welfare standards.
Following the completion of consultation with the farming organisations a booklet on good farming practice will be published shortly.
