Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 April 2024
138. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if farmers will be penalised for spreading fertiliser that has phosphorus in it, given that many fertilisers have some level of fertilisers in them and considering new requirements to have soil tested before spreading compound fertilisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18279/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTo protect water quality, the Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) for the Protection of Waters Regulations, as amended, sets limits regarding the application of certain nutrients, including Phosphorus to agricultural soils.
Since January 2023, all arable land and holdings with a grassland stocking rate greater than 130 kg Nitrogen per hectare in the previous year must be subject to soil analysis, including an assessment of the soil's Phosphorous content. In the absence of a valid soil test, such land is assumed to be at soil Phosphorous Index 4. With some limited exceptions, this prohibits the application of chemical and/or imported organic Phosphorous to these soils.
For non-arable land and land stocked at less than 130kg Nitrogen per hectare in the previous year, soil Phosphorus analysis is not mandatory. On this land a soil Phosphorous index of 3 is assumed in the absence of a valid soil sample. This allows maintenance levels of Phosphorous to be applied.
Exceeding fertilisation limits for agricultural soils represents a breach of the GAP Regulations and presents risks to water quality. In the case of direct payment applicants, this may lead to a sanction being applied to the farmer's CAP payments as appropriate. The scale of the sanction will be determined by the extent and severity of the breach. If a farmer is seeking to avail of a Nitrates Derogation, such a breach of their Phosphorous limit would result in their application for the Derogation being rejected and the farmer being deemed ineligible to avail of a Nitrates Derogation in the following year.
To reduce the risk of the loss of nutrients to water and to maximise economic sustainability, farmers purchasing fertiliser should only buy products that meet their soil and crops' nutritional requirements. These purchasing decisions should be informed by soil analysis and engagement of a Farm Advisory System accredited agricultural advisor where appropriate.
