Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan Monaghan, Brendan Smith, has called on the Government to intensify its efforts at EU level to secure an extension of Ireland’s Nitrates Derogation beyond 2025.

Deputy Smith was speaking after receiving detailed replies from the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to two parliamentary questions he tabled on progress to date in negotiations with the European Commission.

Deputy Smith said, “The nitrates derogation is absolutely vital to Irish farming, particularly to family dairy and livestock farms in Cavan Monaghan and across the country. It underpins the viability of our grass-based production system and supports thousands of farm families and rural communities.

It is clear from the most recent correspondence from the European Commission to the Irish Government that significant additional environmental assessments are now required if Ireland is to secure a further derogation.

Smith commented, “I welcome the Taoiseach’s decision to establish a Cabinet Committee on water quality to coordinate this work, as well as the Minister’s ongoing engagement with Commissioners and EU counterparts. However, there can be no let-up in these efforts. Farmers need certainty well in advance of 2026 to plan for the future.”

Deputy Smith highlighted that the Commission has requested more detailed assessments of the environmental impacts of any new derogation, particularly regarding compliance with the EU Habitats Directive.

“The Government must ensure that these assessments are completed thoroughly and without delay, while also presenting the strongest possible case for Ireland’s unique grass-based system and the improvements already delivered in water quality,” he said.

Smith acknowledged that Farmers are willing to do their part, but added they need a clear and workable framework. Work to secure the nitrates derogation is ongoing.