Mr. John Enright:

Deputy Fitzmaurice asked if we want a fertiliser register. We had discussions with the committee some weeks ago on the new nitrates action programme and the nitrates derogation. There are legal limits on the amount of nitrogen we can use on our farms. A fertiliser register is just another piece of red tape and bureaucracy for farmers and another hurdle I will have to jump as a farmer. It is a significant concern for farmers from the point of view of penalties, sanctions, etc., and another headache.

From our perspective, we have legal requirements. The vast majority of farmers are meeting those requirements but, unfortunately, the European Commission and the Department have said it is a necessary requirement. It is a bit like the nature restoration law. It is another issue and another cost and headache for farmers.