Irish Minister Seeks Practical EU Nitrates Derogation for Farmers
Irish Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon, has called for a practical and legally robust EU nitrates derogation agreement that safeguards family farms while ensuring environmental compliance. During a recent visit by EU Commissioner Jessika Roswall to Ireland, Heydon stressed the critical importance of making the derogation extension 'workable' for farmers.
Commissioner Roswall, responsible for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy, visited Ireland to assess progress on sustainability and water quality. She acknowledged the significant efforts made by Irish farmers but emphasized that continued work is necessary to meet EU environmental standards.
Heydon highlighted the conditional nature of the nitrates derogation and its importance for family farms, stating that the details of the agreement are crucial for practical implementation at the farm level. He has prioritized securing an extension of the derogation since taking office in January.
Aindrias Moynihan, chair of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food, also underscored the significance of the derogation for Ireland's grass-based industry. Moynihan emphasized the efforts made by farmers to enhance water quality and stressed that the majority of beneficiaries are family-run farms, not large factory operations.
Both Irish officials agree that the success of any deal hinges on its practical applicability. They stressed the need for an extension that continues to deliver environmental benefits while being feasible for Irish farmers.
