Farming community welcomes progress at nitrates negotiations

FARM groups welcomed the progress unveiled yesterday by the Government in its nitrates negotiations with the EU Commission.

IFA president John Bryan said the Governmenthad achieved significant changes to the EU’s original directive, such as the continuation of the derogation allowing for higher levels of nitrates on higher stocked, intensive cattle farms.

John Bryan said: “The 5,000 farmers who availof the nitrates derogation each year will deliver the future growth of the sector identified in the Food Harvest 2020 strategy. The continuation for the pigs and poultry sectors of the phosphorous provision will ensure that these vital export sectors remain competitive.