Glaring flaw in nitrate rules

PADRAIG WALSHE has accurately pinpointed the most glaring flaw in the nitrates’ regulations, which has enabled him to make a strong case in partnership talks for amendment of the regulations.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Tánaiste Mary Harney and Finance Minister Brian Cowen made opening statements last week as the partnership talks got under way.

Normally, farming issues would be the least of their worries at these talks, where the Government's main objective is to maintain competitiveness in the economy.