ICSA president Sean McNamara has said that the confirmation of Ireland’s nitrates derogation for a further three years is a welcome reminder of what can be achieved when everyone works together with a clear, united purpose. “Today’s announcement is proof that when the country rows in behind a common goal, we can influence Europe. It shows that when Government, MEPs, farm organisations and officials pull in the one direction, Ireland can deliver results at EU level,” he said.

Mr McNamara said the same collective effort must now be applied to stopping the Mercosur trade deal. “If we can mobilise nationally for the derogation, then we must do the very same for Mercosur. We need every political leader, every MEP and every farm organisation pulling together to stop this hypocritical deal. Now is the time to show the same unity and resolve for beef and poultry farmers that was shown for the dairy sector.”

 Regarding the derogation, he said the decision comes with significant conditionality, some of which will have ramifications beyond those availing of the derogation. “ICSA is concerned about the obligations linked to the Habitats Directive and the potential for catchment-specific restrictions. Drystock farmers must not be hit with blanket measures to solve problems they did not create.”

 Mr McNamara said ICSA will be holding the Department to account to ensure all measures are evidence-based, proportionate and targeted. “Improved water quality is a shared goal, but fairness must be at the heart of every decision.”

 Concluding, Mr McNamara said, “Today shows what unity can deliver. Let’s now apply that same unity to defeating Mercosur once and for all. Irish beef farmers need the entire country behind them, and ICSA will not rest until this damaging deal is stopped in its tracks.”