The nitrates derogation, which allows 7,000 Irish dairy farmers to spread more fertiliser on their land than their European counterparts, had been due to expire at the end of this year. The Government has spent months intensively lobbying officials in the European Commission, the union’s executive arm that proposes and enforces EU laws, for further leeway, to prolong an existing Irish derogation to nitrates rules. The nitrates derogation, which allows 7,000 Irish dairy farmers to spread more fertiliser on their land than their European counterparts, had been due to expire at the end of this year. The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, which represents dairy farmers, welcomed the continued recognition of Ireland’s “unique grass-based system”. The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) said obtaining the extension was a “relief” but a longer-term solution is needed.

Source: The Irish Times December 10, 2025 02:05 UTC