Change the nitrates order or face a costly disaster

EVERYONE with an interest in the welfare of rural Ireland must be aware of the catastrophic implications of the nitrates directive.

We must assume, as well, that none of the agencies that foisted it on the country has ever bothered to reveal exactly how much it will cost.

The ICMSA estimates that the capital cost to Co Cork farmers alone will be in the region of €255 million. That cost will arise directly out of the expense involved in the provision of four weeks extra slurry storage.