Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There is a 1% inspection check on this. That is why it is important that everybody is managing themselves well and doing the right thing in not applying any more fertiliser to the soil than is needed. Of course, that saves money. In the event of a farmer being in the 1% that gets inspected, there is the prospect of a potential penalty. The penalties are small for small infringements by anybody in the 1% who get checked. However, it is really important that everyone works together to make sure there is a full understanding among farmers. As I said, the regulations have not changed. They have been place for a good period of time but some of the advisers and recently the INHFA have raised this issue, so I have asked my team to engage with them in order that everybody works together to make sure the communication piece is as strong as it can be, or to see if there is more needed.

There was communication in 2022 and 2023. However, if the sense is that more is needed, everyone needs to work together. If farmers are unclear, it is important they talk to their agricultural adviser to get good advice. Not only is it in farmers’ interest to do so for profitability, it is also in all of our interests to ensure no more than necessary is spread. It is a waste of money, but it also has water quality implications.

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