David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 76: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the representations he has received from farming organisations and groups with a view to having the slurry spreading deadline extended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36184/09]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 93: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the discussions he has had with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with regard to extending the slurry spreading deadline in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36183/09]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 and 93 together.

Officials from my Department and the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government have had detailed discussions and I have also discussed this matter with my colleague Mr John Gormley T.D., Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government. I have had representations from farm bodies and a number of farmers requesting an extension to the spreading period for slurry.

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. Any adjustment to Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme will require the agreement of the EU Commission.