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There will be no flexibility regarding the closed slurry spreading period, the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed, has said.
Minster Creed was speaking in response to a parliamentary question from Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice this week, who asked about the possibility of changes to nitrates regulations for farmers who are unable to empty slurry tanks due to waterlogged ground.
Deputy Fitzmaurice asked if farmers with slurry tanks at full capacity and have low-emission slurry spreading (LESS) scheme as a GLAS action could use a rain gun to spread slurry.
He also asked Minister Creed if he will extend the slurry season to accommodate these persons whose land is currently too wet to facilitate the spreading of slurry.
Minister Creed responded by saying that under regulations it is not permitted to apply slurry by means of a rain gun or an upward trajectory splash-plate as these application methods do not provide for an efficient and accurate application of slurry.
“Slurry may only be applied by means of a downward trajectory splash-plate or (LESS) equipment.
“Under Ireland’s nitrates action programme (NAP) the closed period for the spreading of slurry commences on 15 October and ends between 12 and 31 January, depending on location.”
Nutrient losses
Minister Creed also said that research, including that from the Agricultural Catchments Programme (ACP), has shown that there are disproportionate high nutrient losses to waters during winter months, which coincide with the closed period, when grass and crop growth has ceased and high rainfall is more likely.
“The closed period was agreed after extensive public consultation including discussions with farming bodies.”
He reiterated that there is no flexibility as regards the dates of the closed period.
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