European environment commissioner Jessika Roswall’s visit to Ireland on Friday could be crucial to the retention of the nitrates derogation, with a decision on Ireland’s application due next month.

The nitrates derogation is facing its defining days, following Monday’s massive IFA meeting in Corrin Mart.

Commissioner Roswall arrives in Ireland this Friday 7 November, to visit farms and see first-hand the work being done to minimise nutrient loss and help improve water quality.

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She will have ultimate responsibility for the renewal of the Nitrates Action Programme, due to expire at the end of this year. The crucial importance of that decision to Irish farming was highlighted by the huge attendance at Monday night’s meeting, and by the contributions from all sides present. With almost 2,000 farmers inside, and over 100 milk, feed and cattle trucks outside, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon was left in no doubt as to the expectation of Irish farming – a renewal of the derogation as it stands.

The need for stability was repeatedly emphasised, with the cut from 250kg to 220kg of organic nitrogen per hectare for most farms introduced only two years ago.

Minister Heydon offered no guarantee, saying that “Ireland is the only country with the prospect of a derogation in 2026”.

The draft nitrates action programme for 2026-2029 was published last week. The minister hopes to have a decision next month, so commissioner Roswall’s reaction to what she sees on her farm visits will be pivotal.