Farmers face fines if EIA screenings are not conducted

FARMERS cannot convert more than five hectares of uncultivated land or semi-natural area to intensive agriculture without having an environmental impact assessment (EIA) screening carried out by Department of Agriculture officials, under regulations designed to avert multi-million euro fines.

The EIA screening will also be needed for those removing more than 500 metres of field boundary, re-contouring more than two hectares (one hectare = 2.471 acres), or draining more than 15 hectares (36.9 acres).

Environment and Agriculture Ministers Phil Hogan and Simon Coveney yesterday said consultation and engage-ment will take place with relevant stakeholders and the European Commission on the guidelines that will support these regulations.