Nitrates banding options for dairy farmers announced

The banding requirement was "a necessary part of securing our Nitrates Action Programme and nitrates derogation at EU level".

Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has said that he is conscious that the introduction of banding is a "new and significant additional requirement for dairy farmers".

Dairy farmers can now submit information to confirm the nitrogen excretion band for their dairy cows in 2023, with three options confirmed to be available to farmers in determining their average for this year.

Speaking on Wednesday as he made the announcement, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has said that he is conscious that the introduction of banding is a "new and significant additional requirement for dairy farmers".