Co-ops warn of directive danger

Two co-op leaders have warned of the impact of the nitrate directive on dairy farmers.

Tim Dullea, Tipperary Co-op managing director, said the proposals would have dire consequences for the development of the type of dairy industry that was needed post-Fischler.

Lakeland Dairies chief executive Ed Prendergast said it is imperative the nitrates directive is amended so it doesn’t become a barrier to the restructuring of the dairy industry at farm level.