Minister extends nitrates deadline

THE deadline for applications for derogations under the nitrates regulations in respect of 2007 has been extended to October 12 by Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan.

She said the availability of the derogation is very important for intensive grassland farmers, particularly those in the dairying sector.

Grassland farms that apply for derogation and meet the conditions will be permitted to exceed the 170kg of organic manure per hectare limit, up to a maximum of 250kg per hectare.