Continued nitrates derogation secured for Waterford

Farmers in Waterford will benefit from the continued availability of the nitrates derogation, Waterford Minister John Cummins has said.

Minister Cummins welcomed the announcement by his Fine Gael colleague Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon that Ireland has secured the continued availability of the nitrates derogation, which is great news for derogation farmers in Waterford.

On news of the announcement Minister Cummins said: “Securing continued availability of the nitrate’s derogation has been a key priority for Fine Gael.

“I’m delighted to see that agreement was reached with the Commission on a three- year implementing decision providing for the derogation.

“The implementing decision sets out the conditions for the derogation, including the need to show compliance with the Habitats Directive.

“I want to recognise Minister Heydon for bringing Commissioner Roswal to Ireland in November, which was such an important component to today’s decision. She saw first-hand the importance of the nitrates derogation to Irish farmers.

“I want to recognise the Commissioner’s engagement with stakeholders and in particular the visit to a typical Irish family farm. The family farm model, based on animals being outdoors, is the cornerstone of our sustainability.  

“Improving water quality is a critical part of continued access to the nitrates derogation. Irish farmers take their environmental responsibilities very seriously and are on a journey of continuous improvement. This objective is shared by all of industry, stakeholders and farmers.

“We will continue to work with farmers on this journey, on the task of improving water quality and ensuring continued availability of the derogation beyond the current decision. This must be our priority now as we chart our way forward,” concluded Minister Cummins.