IFA calls for flexibility on spreading of slurry and farmyard manure

FARMERS should be given flexibility to spread slurry and farmyard manure for the remainder of the year owing to the very wet weather recently.

Irish Farmers’ Association deputy president, Derek Deane, who made the call on Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith, said derogation had been given to Northern Ireland farmers by the administration in Belfast.

“This derogation allows farmers to spread after October 15 and up to December 31 due to the waterlogged soil and consequent poor slurry spreading conditions. It is up to Minister Smith to now seek a similar arrangement,” he said.