IFA suspends Teagasc support over nitrates
Teagasc said last night it regretted the IFA move and again insisted it does not accept that any of the scientific data it submitted to the Government Departments with regards to the nitrates directive was inaccurate or flawed and found it difficult to understand the demand that it be withdrawn.
IFA president Padraig Walshe earlier claimed there was a crisis of confidence in Teagasc.
Pointing out that the IFA opposes the introduction of the regulations as they stand, he warned there would be a head-on conflict with Government if it attempts to impose them in cross compliance.
Mr Walshe said full responsibility for the nitrates debacle rests with the Government, which now has a choice.
It can close down commercial farming. Or it can bring in sensible environmental regulations that will protect high water quality and allow commercial farmers to remain competitive.
The new IFA leader warned that provisions in the regulations would close the pig and poultry industries and hamper good dairy farmers and cattle finishers.
Teagasc said last night the IFA recommendation that farmers withdraw their support, including non-payment of fees, would, if continued, seriously damage the valuable and long-standing relationship between its advisers and researchers and Irish farmers at this crucial time.
Pointing out that it had supplied scientific data supporting the case for derogation, Teagasc said withdrawal of any such data could damage the ongoing preparation of the case for derogations in respect of nitrogen and possibly phosphorous.
It reiterated its willingness to meet the IFA at any time on any issues of concern to Irish agriculture, including the nitrates directive.
Addressing the IFA AGM, Ms Coughlan said she recognises that regulations pose difficulties for many farmers, not least pig and poultry producers. She had proposed grant schemes for slurry storage, treatment and spreading systems. Ongoing talks with the Commission were expected to conclude shortly.
