Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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2225. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the outcome of discussions he has had to date with the EU Agriculture and Environment Commissioners and at the Agriculture Council on the need to retain the nitrates derogation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43616/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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The nitrates derogation is very important to Ireland’s agri-food sector, particularly in the context of supporting sustainable and economically viable dairy and livestock production.

I continue to emphasise, in all relevant fora, the critical need to retain a workable derogation framework that balances environmental protection with farm-level implementation.

My Department and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage are actively engaged with the European Commission at a technical level, providing detailed information on Ireland’s unique outdoor grass-based system, Irish water quality, the changes implemented under Ireland’s current Nitrates Action Programme, and the level of engagement by all stakeholders to drive improvements in our water quality. Discussions are now focusing on proposals for the next Nitrates Action Programme and work to underpin the derogation sought post-2025.

I have raised this issue during bilateral discussions with the EU Agriculture and Environment Commissioners, and during relevant discussions at the AgriFish Council, most recently at the July Council meeting.

I have personally extended an invitation to Commissioner Roswall, the Environment Commissioner, to visit Ireland to understand first hand our unique situation and the work underway from a water quality perspective.

My approach is focused on constructive dialogue, backed by science and evidence. I will press for a balanced, fair and proportionate outcome that protects both the environment and the future of Irish farming.