Independent TD, Richard O’Donoghue, has raised concerns over the lack of manufacturing dates on chemical fertiliser.
The deputy raised the matter with Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, in recent days.
Fertiliser dates
In response to his parliamentary question, the minister said:
“Manufacturing or expiry dates are not required for fertilisers. The primary reason is that fertilisers do not lose their efficacy if stored in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.”
“However, protected fertilisers should be used within 6-12 months to maintain the effectiveness of the inhibitor. In any event, the nutrient content of the fertiliser will be stable as for other fertilisers.”
He stated that fertiliser comprises a variety of natural minerals and other elements that do not break down during storage.
He says that this allows farmers to carry forward unused fertiliser from year to year, thereby ensuring no “unnecessary” disposal of unused stocks.
Green Party’s proposed formula milk advertising ban
In other news, formula milk and follow-on milk advertising may face a ban under changes to the Online Safety and Media Regulation Bill that the Green Party’s Catherine Martin put forward.
According to the political party, the change to the proposed legislation would allow the new media commission to prohibit advertising relating to formula milk and follow-on milk based on concerns about “the health impact on children”.
This comes following work between Green Party colleagues, Minister Martin and Senator Pauline O’Reilly.
Commenting on the amendment, Senator O’Reilly said:
“How women choose to feed their babies is a matter for themselves. They need unbiased support.”
“Breastfeeding makes no company money, and therefore, it cannot currently compete for attention through advertising.”
“Formula milk is big business, and Ireland is one of the largest exporters of dairy for formula milk. We must do all we can to ensure that those who want to breastfeed are supported and not the target of these money-making companies.”
