Revised nitrates directive threatens €500m poultry and pig industry

THE “unnecessary and punitive” measures proposed for inclusion in the revised programme for administering the Nitrates Directive arise from Irish Government and not from European Union requirements.

Independent MEP Marian Harkin made the claim when highlighting what she described as the threat posed to the €500 million poultry and pig industries by the measures.

She said the present derogation which permits the spreading of organic poultry and pig fertiliser takes full account of environmental requirements and as such must be maintained.