A one-week extension to the slurry spreading deadline has been announced by Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon and Minister for Housing James Browne.

Slurry spreading will now be permitted up to Wednesday 7 October, with the closed period for slurry spreading commencing on Thursday 8 October.

The move has been made in response to exceptional weather over the summer period and the recent surge in grass growth in areas that were previously affected by drought, the Department has said.

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The extension announced on Friday gives an opportunity for farmers to ensure they can comply with the closed period while also promoting responsible slurry application.

Significant challenges

“Weather conditions this year have presented significant challenges for many farmers, in particular due to the drought experienced during the summer over much of the south and southeast of the country," Minister Heydon commented.

"I am conscious that on some farms animals were indoors up to very recently as farmers sought to build covers to allow animals get back out to grass and with the harvesting of second and third cuts having been delayed, this extension will help manage workload on farms.”

Both ministers stated that given the importance of improving water quality, inspectors from the local authorities as well as the Department of Agriculture will be adopting a zero-tolerance approach to anyone found spreading slurry or soiled water during the respective closed period.

Farmers who wish to avail of the extension need to register with the Department of Agriculture in advance of spreading.

This can be done by emailing nitrates@agriculture.gov.ie or by phoning 053-916 3425 and quoting their herd number.

Grass growth

Minister of State for nature Christopher O’Sullivan added: “I’m delighted that we are able to provide this extension to the slurry spreading season.

“The weather has put farmers under serious pressure this year and the current conditions where we are seeing an increase in grass growth means that an extra week is scientifically possible.

“As minister with responsibility for water quality, I would like to reiterate Minister Heydon and Minister Browne’s calls for responsible spreading and respect for the closed period from 8 October.”