'Now is time for action' to retain nitrates derogation

Industry and Government has been urged to “advocate strongly” for the continuation of the derogation post-2025.

“Now is the time for action” to retain Ireland’s nitrates derogation, Lakeland Dairies chairman Niall Matthews has stressed.

He has urged industry and Government to “advocate strongly” for the continuation of the derogation post-2025.

“The entire foundation of our world-class dairy industry is built on protecting and enhancing our water quality,” Mr Matthews said.

“As a co-op and as an industry, we are constantly striving to make improvements to our water quality, which is already good by EU standards.

We must continue to promote the future sustainability of our high-quality, grass-based dairy production system and not simply take matters as others might seek to present them to us.

“This is a matter for our Government and elected representatives in Europe to fully understand that they must protect and ensure the future of Irish agriculture which is fully committed to sustainability and the preservation of our environmental credentials.”

'Unfathomable'

Mr Matthews said that the potential impact of a derogation loss for the rural economy is “unfathomable”.

“Farmers were the originators of the circular economy – money that comes into the farm is spent and invested locally,” Mr Matthews continued.

“The dairy industry is projected to be worth some €17bn to the economy and this would be greatly diminished were we to lose the derogation.”

He was speaking as Lakeland Dairies hosted a water quality event attended by over 200 dairy farmers, and industry and political stakeholders on the award-winning Fitzpatrick family farm in Lisryan, Granard, Co Longford recently.

The gathering highlighted the broad economic and social benefits of the dairy industry.

“Ensuring the economic viability of dairy farming is crucial not only for the present, but for future generations as well,” Mr Matthews told the event.

“Farmers deserve fair compensation for their hard work, comparable to any other profession requiring similar dedication.

Dairy farming fuels significant economic activity, creating jobs on farms and in related sectors such as milk processing, transport, and local services.

“This creates a multiplier effect, traditionally the backbone of our rural economy, supporting local businesses.

“With the stringent regulations under the nitrates derogation, our farmers have adopted advanced practices that once seemed ambitious but are now part of everyday farming life. Without the economic powerhouse that is dairying, rural Ireland would face significant challenges.”