Vol. 574 No. 1
222 Mr. J. Brady asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on the extent to which farmers participate in soil analysis programmes; the plans he has to increase the level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26399/03]
While approximately 60,000 soil samples were tested last year, there is scope for a much greater use of the available soil testing facilities in Ireland. Soil testing is a useful management tool. While its use is compulsory for participants in the rural environment protection scheme, I encourage other farmers to make better use of this service for both economic and environmental reasons. Research has shown that considerable cost savings are possible when fertiliser use is based on soil analysis and is in accordance with Teagasc recommendations. Effective use of soil analysis data also has the potential to contribute to the protection of the environment and facilitates the achievement of the goal of sustainable agriculture.
I will shortly make proposals to the European Commission for changes in REPS. I am confident that these changes, once approved by the Commission, will result in a significant and sustained increase in the number of participants in the scheme. This in turn will lead to an increased level of soil testing, which Ireland has sufficient testing capacity to facilitate.
