FG demands end to nitrates red tape

FINE Gael has tabled a Dáil motion on what it says are the layers of unwarranted bureaucracy farmers have to face when it comes to cross compliance and the implementation of the nitrates directive.

Party spokesperson Denis Naughten, TD, said farming, under the current Government, has become nothing more than a byproduct of bureaucracy.

The motion calls on the Government to suspend all on-farm inspections until farmers are given full and unambiguous information on the implementation of the nitrates action plan.

It also seeks to establish a realistic timetable for the phased compliance with the nitrates directive and adequate notice for all on-farm inspections.