Nitrates breach prompts legal action

The European Commission has decided to pursue legal action against Ireland for breaches of environmental law in eight cases including failure to comply with a Court of Justice ruling on nitrates.

Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said he welcomed Ireland’s decision taken in 2003 to apply throughout its territory an action programme to reduce water pollution by nitrates from farming.

“However, the programme needs serious strengthening in key areas if it is to contribute successfully to securing clean water for Irish citizens and to satisfying the March 2004 ruling of the Court of Justice,” he said.