Allister welcomes progess on Nitrates issue
08 July 2005
Jim Allister MEP has welcomed the recent announcement from Lord Rooker, Minister for both DARD and DOE, which indicates ‘movement in the right direction’ regarding the implementation of the Nitrates Directive and associated Farm Nutrient Management Scheme.
Mr Allister commented, “Over the past year the DUP has been lobbying at both Brussels and local level for a practical solution for the implementation of the Nitrates Directive within Northern Ireland. The DUP have lobbied for a reduced closed period, removal of individual farm phosphate balances, allowance for farmers who either outwinter livestock or use straw bedding and increased grant rates in order to help the industry implement the legislation. I welcome that each of these arguments have being taken on board and will hopefully be incorporated within the final action programme for the Nitrates Directive and Farm Nutrient Management Scheme rules.
“Although the Minister has indicated the he hopes to make favourable change to the way in which the Nitrates Directive will be implemented, it is only going to sweeten a bitter pill that the industry has to swallow. I recognise that many farmers within the industry will still question whether or not they can afford to construct additional slurry storage.”
Jim Allister has given a commitment to continue and work for the best possible deal for the Northern Ireland agri-food industry. “I will continue to lobby in Brussels for getting the best possible for the Northern Ireland industry. I will also continue to lobby the Minister for increased funds for the Farm Nutrient Management scheme if the need arises.”
