Irish farmers will be allowed to spread slurry for an extra week this autumn, until Wednesday 7 October, after Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon and Housing Minister James Browne granted an extension on 25 September. The closed period will begin on 8 October.

The ministers said the criteria for an extension in exceptional circumstances under the Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters Regulations had been met. The summer drought across much of the south and southeast kept animals indoors until recently on some farms, delayed second and third silage cuts, and was followed by a surge in grass growth.

"This extension will help manage workload on farms," Heydon said. Farmers who want to use it must register with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in advance of spreading, by email or phone quoting their herd number.

The ministers warned that, given the importance of improving water quality, inspectors from local authorities and the department will take a zero-tolerance approach to anyone spreading slurry or soiled water during the closed period.

The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association called it the common sense approach. Deputy president Eamon Carroll said tanks hold excess slurry because of the drought and it is important to spread it while the nitrogen can still be used. The report is by Kathleen O'Sullivan.

Photo: desomurchu archive gallery / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Source: Agriland