The implementation of the nitrates directive is a matter, in the first instance, for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, who signed regulations giving legal effect to Ireland's national action programme on nitrates on 11 December 2005.
Ireland is proceeding with its request for a derogation designed to allow certain farmers to operate, under appropriate conditions and controls, up to a level of 250 kg of organic nitrogen per hectare per annum. My Department is taking the lead in this matter and, with the support of Teagasc, will continue to work with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government toward achieving a successful outcome.
The process commenced formally at a meeting of the EU nitrates committee in December, when an outline of Ireland's proposal was presented. Detailed discussions between officials of my Department, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the European Commission have since taken place. Following these discussions the detailed scientific argument in support of the proposal is being finalised, and will be submitted formally to the Commission very shortly. Other member states will then have the opportunity to ask questions prior to a more detailed presentation at next meeting of the nitrates committee in March.
I am aware of the need to conclude the process quickly and I am hopeful that the approval process can be finalised as early as possible in 2006.
