Extra phosphorous allowance part of NAP

AN EXTRA phosphorous allowance of 15kg/ha for reseeding at soil index 1, 2 or 3 will be part of the new national action programme (NAP) under the Nitrates Directive, agreed between the Government and the EU Commission.

The extra phosphorus is essential for sward establishment., said Agricultural Science Association President Pat O’Keeffe, acknowledging the scientific input of professionals in the public and private sectors to the NAP.

ASA welcomed extension of transitional arrangements for the pigs and poultry sectors, and changes to winter ploughing dates and nitrogen and phosphorus for cereal crops, to ensure survival of the malting barley industry. However, ASA remains concerned about the impact of phosphorus deficiency on animal health, and said the extra nitrogen for malting barley could have been extended to all spring barley.