Two Tipperary TDs have responded to news that Ireland’s nitrates derogation is to be reduced. The EU Commission decision comes as Ireland has failed to meet an agreement to improve water quality.
Fianna Fáil TD for Tipperary and Cathaoirleach of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee, Jackie Cahill is expressing disappointment and concern following the decision. The TD, also a dairy farmer, says the decision will cause huge damage to the Irish dairy sector and mean that capacity in the processing system will not be used.
Deputy Cahill says the decision seriously threatens the viability of the Irish family farm structure, may discourage new entrants to the sector and will damage the rural economy.
Deputy Michael Lowry says the shock decision will have a negative impact on many dairy enterprises in the county. The Independent TD says farmers have invested heavily in the understanding that production would be safeguarded and describes the situation as “a major environmental issue and financial headache for several farm households across the county.”Up to now, under agreement with the Commission, Irish farmers have been permitted to produce 250kg of organic nitrogen, as opposed to farmers on average holdings in other European countries who were restricted to 170kg. As of January 1st 2024 Irish farmers will have to comply with a limit of 22Okg per hectare until December 31st 2025 when a new agreement is to be put in place.
