DAFM still seeking ‘flexibility’ on nitrates interim review

Minister for Agriculture noted the "absolute imperative of all of us working together to get water quality going in the right direction". Picture: Andy Gibson.

The Department of Agriculture has gone to the European Commission “about the benefits of a science-based targeted approach that could deliver more for water quality” than a cut to the nitrates derogation, but the commission is “set on pulling down that maximum stocking rate”, according to a senior inspector in the Department of Agriculture.

While negotiations are continuing, according to Ted Massey, the EPA’s nitrates and water quality report has gone to the commission.