Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

The Minister of State will be acutely aware of the problem of greenhouse gas emissions from chemical fertilisers, particularly nitrous oxide, which is one of the most potent greenhouse gases. Would the Minister consider the undertaking by his Department, in conjunction with bodies such as Teagasc and experts in the industry, of a review of the nitrates directive? Organic nitrogen has an advantage in terms of locking carbon into the soil. Without compromising water quality, will the Minister of State undertake a review of the nitrates directive so we might switch from organic to inorganic nitrogen sources?

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