Press release

04/02/10

Today local Minister Noel Dempsey, T.D. welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Brendan Smith T.D. reminding farmers that they should start thinking about whether they need a nitrates derogation for the existing year.

Speaking today Minister Dempsey said: “I advise all Meath farmers to check the details of the derogation process on the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Foods website. Intensive grassland farmers can exceed the general limit of 170kg of nitrogen per hectare per year on their farm, up to a limit of 250kg, provided you have a derogation in place. Nitrogen and Phosphorus Statements for 2009 are in the process of being issued and this will assist intensive farmers with their decision regarding whether they need a derogation in 2010. I advise all Meath farmers to check their details without delay."

Farmers who intend to apply for derogation must:

· Have a fertiliser plan in place on the farm by the 1st of March
· Present a copy of the fertiliser plan with the application except  where an approved REPS 4 plan is in place.
· Apply to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for a derogation by the closing date of Wednesday, 31st of March 2010. No applications will be accepted after this date.
· Get their land soil tested at least once every four years

Reps 4 members will receive a statement regardless of their livestock manure application. In REPS 4 it is a requirement that the nitrogen and phosphorous details are recorded. 

Farmers should contact their local District Veterinary Office or from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Nitrates Section in Johnstown Castle, Co. Wexford, or on-line for registered users at www.agriculture.gov.ie

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