Local T.D. backs government’s commitment to water quality and nitrates derogation

Fianna Fáil T.D. Tony McCormack has strongly welcomed the Taoiseach’s announcement of a new Cabinet Committee on Water Quality, which will oversee improvements across all sectors.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy McCormack emphasised the vital role that farmers have played, and continue to play, in enhancing water quality.

He noted that while farming is often blamed for water quality issues, the reality is that multiple sectors contribute to the challenge.

“It is important to put on the record that farmers have done huge work and continue to do so in working to improve water quality,” he said.

Deputy McCormack recently met with the Offaly branch of the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA), who presented a compelling case about the challenges farmers face. He fully supports their position and stressed that the burden of improving water quality must be shared fairly.

“It is now up to industry, state agencies, and local authorities to put in the same level of work and assist farmers with this issue. This is not solely caused by the farming community, but they are the ones who will suffer most if we don’t get this right,” he stated.

Furthermore, he pointed to recent findings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which show a clear improvement in water quality.

“The Environmental Protection Agency, in a study, has shown that water quality is at the highest level in Ireland since 2016. This demonstrates the incredible work the agricultural community has been putting into this,” Deputy McCormack highlighted.

One of the key concerns for the farming community is the future of Ireland’s nitrates derogation at EU level.

This derogation allows certain farms to operate at higher stocking rates than the standard EU limits, recognizing Ireland’s unique grass-based production model. Without it, many farmers would face significant restrictions, impacting their livelihoods and food production.

“We in Fianna Fáil will do everything in our power to retain the Nitrates Derogation at EU level,” Deputy McCormack said.

The new Cabinet Committee on Water Quality, chaired by the Taoiseach, will coordinate efforts across all sectors to ensure a science-based and fair approach to water quality improvements.

Among the key measures announced by the Government are: Securing the Nitrates Derogation; Expanding the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP); Increased Support for the EIP Farming for Water Scheme; and enhanced Collaboration on Water Testing.

These measures reflect a broader, multi-sectoral approach to water quality, ensuring that all contributors play their part alongside farmers.

Deputy McCormack said: “Farmers have always been willing to engage, but they cannot carry this burden alone. Industry and state agencies must also step up,” he said.

“We must protect our environment while also protecting our family farms. With the right policies, cooperation, and evidence-based solutions, we can achieve both,” he concluded.

With Fianna Fáil committed to supporting farmers and ensuring Ireland retains its nitrates derogation, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of Irish agriculture and water quality policy.