Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 10 July 2024

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Compliance with the Nitrates Directive and Implications for Ireland: Discussion (Resumed)

5:30 pm

Photo of Tim LombardTim Lombard (Fine Gael)
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My point was that we have the data but if we get that data more quickly to the farm gate that would help the farmer empower himself or herself to make the decisions that are appropriate. The advisers are very helpful and an important part of this tool but there is an opportunity here to empower the farmer directly. For example, if you had a tank collection tomorrow morning, you would get your test within 24 hours of what is in that tank. Something similar could be appropriate here with regard to a water body. If that was put online and farmers were aware of it, there could be a positive opportunity for them to empower themselves to make sure they are doing the right practices.