A short extension has been announced for 2020 Nitrates Derogation Applications by Michael Creed, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The closing date for applications is now extended to Friday, April 24th. The decision was made following meetings with stakeholders to facilitate farmers to better plan for the year ahead.
Applications, as in previous years, must be submitted to the Department of using the online portal, which can be found on www.agfood.ie.
The Department outlined that farmers are advised to contact their agricultural advisor to determine if they should avail of this facility. Over 6,800 intensively stocked farmers availed of the derogation in 2019.
Minister Creed commented: “I would encourage more intensively stocked farmers to engage with this application process and discuss the need for a derogation with their agricultural advisor by phone.”
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine say the online system is aimed at simplifying the application process and assisting farmers to avoid penalties.
They added that farmers can also remain compliant with the regulations by managing their livestock, exporting enough slurry/farmyard manure or renting additional land.
Information
For more information on Nitrates Derogation, click here.
