Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein)
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391. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on reports that changes to the Nitrates Derogation will be delayed by a further six months, given the current timeline is January 2024; what engagement he has with organisations representing the farming community on this focus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50558/23]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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The move to a maximum derogation stocking rate of 220 kg Nitrogen per hectare, for certain areas, from January 2024, is required by the Commission Implementing Decision granting Ireland's current nitrates derogation. I have engaged with Commissioner Sinkevicius throughout this year, seeking the maximum flexibility possible regarding the move to a maximum derogation stocking rate of 220 kg Nitrogen per hectare.

Since Spring 2022, my Officials and I have been engaging with the farm organisations on this matter. I most recently met with the IFA to discuss this issue on the 9th of November. The most recent discussion with the ICMSA took place at their AGM last Friday, the 17th of November.

Commissioner Sinkevicius. will visit Ireland this week, following an invitation from both myself and the Taoiseach. A key focus of this week's meeting with Commissioner Sinkevicius will be to bring clarity to the situation for all stakeholders.