Soiled water issue ‘angers’ farmers

MACRA na Feirme claimed yesterday the Department of Agriculture and Food’s interpretation of what constitutes soiled water under the nitrates directive has no scientific basis and is totally flawed.

Colm Markey, president, said the situation with regard to soiled water was causing huge anger amongst young farmers who were trying to operate their business in a professional manner.

Mr Markey said he welcomed the strong stance taken by the Teagasc board in insisting that its scientific approach to the treatment of soiled water was accepted, rather than the definition being applied by the Department.