The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) will hold three regional meetings in the coming weeks on the EU Nature Restoration Law.

The meetings coincide with the launch of the Government’s public consultation process on Ireland’s draft plan to implement the law.

Senior officials from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), who are leading the development of the plan, will address the meetings.

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The implementation of the EU law could have far-reaching consequences for thousands of farmers across the country, IFA president Francie Gorman said.

“A report from the independent advisory committee on implementing the law in Ireland has gone to cabinet, but there is no budget allocated for its delivery,” he said.

Invite

“We are inviting farmers to these meetings to hear directly from those responsible for developing the draft nature restoration plan and to understand what it could mean for your farm business. Local politicians will also be invited.

“This will give farmers an opportunity to hear directly what is being proposed and to provide feedback as part of the public consultation process.

“Farmers, understandably, are fearful of what this will mean for their farm business. The nature restoration plan must be fully funded, led by the State on public land first and delivered through voluntary, well-supported measures in genuine partnership with farmers,” he said.

The meetings will take place at the following locations and dates:

  • The Heights Hotel in Killarney - 3 June.
  • The Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon - 4 June.
  • Tullamore Court Hotel - 10 June.