Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has called on the Government to intensify its efforts at EU level to secure an extension of Ireland's Nitrates Derogation beyond 2025.
Deputy Smith was speaking after receiving detailed replies from the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to two parliamentary questions he tabled on progress to date in negotiations with the European Commission.
Deputy Smith told Northern Sound: "The nitrates derogation is absolutely vital to Irish farming, particularly to family dairy and livestock farms in Cavan Monaghan and across the country. It underpins the viability of our grass-based production system and supports thousands of farm families and rural communities.
Deputy Smith acknowledged that Farmers are willing to do their part, but added they need a clear and workable framework.
