Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 359: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she proposes to seek a derogation from the terms of the nitrates directive for farming here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18209/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The implementation of the nitrates directive is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. In keeping with the commitment given in the Sustaining Progress agreement, Ireland has already submitted proposals to the European Commission for a derogation from the general limits laid down in the nitrates directive which would allow farmers to operate, under appropriate conditions and controls, up to a level of 250 kg of organic nitrogen per hectare. These proposals were developed by my Department and Teagasc in consultation with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The Commission has stated that it will not consider the application for a derogation until Ireland's action programme under the nitrates directive is agreed and in place. A revised action programme, on which my Department has been consulted, is being finalised by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.