Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:64 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position of the proposed nitrates directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3558/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 5 February 2004
Ceisteanna (64)
Freagraí scríofa
The implementation of the nitrates directive is in the first instance a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. A draft action programme giving effect to the directive, which was prepared by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in conjunction with my Department and in consultation with Teagasc, was presented in December last to representatives of the main farming organisations and other stakeholders. A period of eight weeks is being provided for stakeholders to submit in writing their comments on the document to either or both Departments. This period runs until 19 February.