Madam, - The statement in yesterday's Editorial that the proposed changes to the nitrates directive could lead to the long-term pollution of drinking water resources is incorrect.
The scientific advice on nutrients for grassland, tillage and other crops as published by Teagasc in the "Green Book" was not fully reflected in the statutory instrument (SI 788-2005) brought into law in December 2005. As a result, both the Teagasc Authority and the Minister for Agriculture and Food decided to ask Teagasc scientists to review the most recent scientific information and developments with a view to supporting some revision of the statutory instrument and bringing it into line with the latest scientific findings.
The draft review (revised scientific report, as you described it) was presented to the Teagasc Authority by its scientists on Monday. This review supports changes in relation to soil phosphorus levels for soils already low in phosphorus. This is essential in order to allow for good animal and crop growth and, if adopted, would have no detrimental consequences for water quality. For farmers with low stocking rates, new limits on nitrogen applications are recommended. Again, these will not result in water exceeding EU quality guidelines.
For pig, poultry and mushroom farmers, arguments are advanced for a significant lead-in time. The changes proposed in soil phosphorus levels would make more land available that could be safely used for the spreading of organic manure from their farms. New technologies to enable more efficient spreading of organic manure are being evaluated.
In the discussion on the review, the authority members fully accepted the scientific merit and integrity of the review document which will not be compromised in any way, or by any interest group, before its completion and submission to the Minister.
Issues relating to nitrogen use by more intensive farmers are not addressed by this review as they are the subject of separate negotiations between the Government Departments and the EU Commission for a derogation under the nitrates directive. - Yours, etc,
ERIC DONALD, Head of PR, Teagasc, Carlow.