Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 303: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on extending the period for spreading slurry by two weeks until the end of October 2009 in order to allow farmers the time to spread slurry while conditions remain suitable on dry ground. [36136/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The prohibited period for the spreading of slurry commences on 15th October in all parts of the country as required by the Nitrates Regulations (SI No. 101 of 2009). These Regulations are a matter in the first instance for my colleague the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The planned review of Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme in 2010 will provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to put forward their views on the question of the most appropriate dates for the prohibited periods for spreading fertilisers that are a mandatory requirement under the EU Nitrates Directive.