Nitrates Directive a blow to future of Irish farming

IRELAND’S version of the Nitrates Directive will probably be the last straw for some older farmers who decide it’s not worth their while to make the investment required and continue a restricted version of farming, under the eyes of yet another layer of farm inspectors.

It looks like the outcome will also seriously restrict some of the young and energetic, most progressive farmers.

There is nothing positive or forward thinking in imposing restrictions on all farmers, to resolve the nitrates problems identified in a few specific regions of the country.