Dr. Eimear Cotter:

Overall, a reduction in nitrogen loading will have an impact, particularly in those areas where there are freely draining soils. We see that from nitrate levels in the south and south east. That is why we have included the additional map. We know that, on their own, the criteria will not address all of the water quality issues we are seeing in Ireland. We will need to take more targeted measures, particularly on phosphorous levels. That is why we have provided the additional map.