A one-week extension has been granted for farmers for slurry spreading.
The extension gives extra time for farmers following the unseasonably wet summer.
The closed period for slurry spreading is now the 8th of October 2023.
Minister McConalogue stated: “I recognise that unseasonable weather conditions experienced this summer and within the last week, have impacted trafficability and provided limited opportunities for possible slurry applications by farmers and contractors.”
Minister McConalogue pointed out: “Slurry is a valuable source of nutrients and is best utilised using low emission slurry spreading and especially in spring when growth and weather conditions are typically favourable for utilising nutrients and limit run-off and emissions to the environment.”
The Minister added, “The majority of slurry has been spread well in advance of the closed period and this must be acknowledged and indeed commended. This limited extension will allow farmers spread any remaining slurry in the best conditions available to them.”
Donegal County Councillor Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly has welcomed the decision by Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue.
“I want to thank the Minister for taking my concerns on board on behalf of the Farmers especially here in Donegal by adding this extra week to the deadline,” Cllr Kelly said.
“Should it be the case that a week is not enough I will be back to the Minister looking for an extra extension, but I have been assured that it’s going to be monitored very closely to try to assist farmers in the best way possible.”
Farmers are reminded to observe Buffer Zones that apply at this time of the year.
