Peter Cleere (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the establishment of this new Cabinet committee. I will focus on the nitrates derogation. As the Taoiseach will be aware, the current derogation concludes at the end of 2025 and Irish water quality improvement is vital for another derogation to be secured. Does he agree that we can retain Ireland's nitrates derogation while improving our water quality? Will he reject the idea that there is a conflict between having a strong agrifood sector and meeting these goals? Consultation is key. Will the Taoiseach engage with farmers, industry, State agencies and local authorities around the country, including in my constituency, Carlow-Kilkenny, to develop evidence-based solutions to assist farmers in improving water quality?

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