Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As a rural Deputy who deals with farmers in the circumstances mentioned by Deputy Scanlon, I agree with what he said about the last two issues. I will certainly bring the message back to the Minister, Deputy Creed, on that matter and the other issues as well. I presume he is attending next week's European meeting, but I do not know for sure. Both of those issues fall under the remit of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, whereas the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Deputy Coveney, and his Department are responsible for the decision on the nitrates directive. I will bring the two other issues to the attention of the Minister, Deputy Creed, when I meet him later this evening. I agree with Deputy Scanlon that the earlier we can identify problems with applications, the better our chances of getting them solved. It is a bit too late when we go looking at these difficulties as Deputies. I will mention that. I know the Minister, Deputy Creed, like his predecessor, Deputy Coveney, is trying to improve the service in this area. There is always room to add value in that regard.

I want to make it clear that the Ministers for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government and Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputies Coveney and Creed, are in communication on the nitrates directive issue which is before the House. They are keeping an open view on the matter. At present, the advice and the science behind it does not lead to the granting of an extension.

It is something that will be kept under review at all times.

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