IFA: Farmers are being burdened with excessive water charges

FARMERS in Ireland are being burdened with unfair and excessive water charges, the Irish Farmers Association has told the European Commission.

IFA Connacht vice president Michael Silke said the Government and civil servants readily blame Brussels for imposing tough decisions

But the commission, following the IFA presentation, agreed to meet with Environment Minister John Gormley to ensure a more equitable water-charging policy exists for farmers.