Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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231. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if farmers from the north west who miss the deadline for spreading slurry due to the wetter weather conditions in this region and that are given alternative dates to do so are being subject to prioritised Department inspections as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45194/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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The Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG) is the lead Department in relation to the nitrates regulations. The closed period for slurry spreading as provided for in the regulations commenced on 15 October. Taking account of the high rainfall in the lead up to the commencement of the closed period, the DHPLG and my Department recognised that there may be some concerns for animal welfare. Farmers with such concerns were advised to contact the Nitrates Section of my Department by Saturday 14 October. Farmers wishing to avail of flexibility for spreading slurry are advised:

- To spread only that volume of slurry necessary to ensure adequate storage capacity for the remainder of the closed period.

- That any spreading should occur as soon as good spreading conditions exist.

- That the Nitrates Section of my Department will subsequently contact the farmers to confirm the dates on which this additional spreading takes place.

The farmers availing of the slurry spreading flexibility will be prioritised for inspection by Local Authorities. As you will be aware , we are currently negotiating the next Nitrates Action Programme and Nitrates Derogation and it is critical that these negotiations progress positively and we avoid the difficulties encountered in other Member states such as Holland. In this context and to ensure the protection of water, the course of action above is aimed at satisfying both objectives in a targeted way. Those farmers with the required storage capacity and who wish to avail of this flexibility should not have reason for concern.

As regards farm safety and slurry, both Departments stress the importance of farmers ensuring that safety is their number one priority as toxic gases are released when slurry is agitated and one breath at this time can cause instant death. All of those working with slurry should be aware of the dangers involved and make sure they work safely at all times.