Farm fears over nitrate

A NATIONAL designation under the EU Nitrates Directive would be a grave mistake, the ICMSA has warned.

John O’Connor, chairman of the Farm Services and Environment Committee, said Environment and Local Government Minister Martin Cullen must not err when making a decision on the issue. He said he was concerned regarding recent comments from the minister that he may opt for a national designation.

“This will place restrictions on farmers where there is no identified nitrate problem in the area. It makes absolutely no sense,” he said.

Mr O’Connor said the Government knows the pressure farmers are under and should not be placing them under unnecessary regulations.

He said the directive should only be implemented in areas where there is an identified nitrates problem.