McConalogue accused of lack of leadership over cut to nitrates derogation

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue informed the Oireachtas agriculture committee that he has agreed to appear before it on October 4. However, politicians have said this is too late. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue has been accused of showing a lack of leadership over a potential move that could see farms becoming unviable and jobs being lost in rural Ireland.

Fine Gael politicians have called on the Fianna Fáil minister to stand up to the European Commission over a pending reduction in Ireland’s nitrates derogation which will lead to farmers reducing their herd with knock-on effects to communities and businesses.