John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael)

The Department of agriculture has very clear standards for slurry storage that have to be adhered to. As the Senator knows, anyone applying for a TAMS grant has to build the structure in accordance with the standards. Even if someone is not availing of a TAMS grant, there are regulations under the nitrates rules that they must comply with the set standards and specifications as laid down by the Department of agriculture. As part of some of the grants in place, farmers are required to get the exemption certificate in order to apply for their grant from TAMS. Everything has to be done in accordance with the regulations that are set down. Inspections are carried out by local authorities and the Department of agriculture on farm regarding a host of areas to do with the environment and ensuring everything is done appropriately on farm.