Ireland secures a three-year extension to its nitrates derogation

Additional requirements imposed on farmers in the Slaney, Barrow, Nore and Blackwater river catchments.

'Ireland’s request was based on the scientific criteria, which align with Ireland’s grass-based, outdoor production model.'

Ireland has secured the continued availability of the Nitrates Derogation with the European Union approving a three-year extension.

Following an extensive push by Ireland, the agreement means thousands of Irish farmers can continue to use more fertiliser than their European counterparts, arguing that progress has been made to improve water quality in rivers and that our grass-based dairy system is more beneficial.