The slurry spreading period has been extended by another 7 days until the 14th of October 2023.
The move was agreed by the Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue today.
“I recognise that unseasonable weather conditions experienced this summer and during September, have impacted trafficability and provided limited opportunities for slurry applications by farmers and contractors. I am conscious that last week’s significant rainfall diminished the opportunity to avail of the limited extension already announced,” the Minister said.
“It is important to recognise also that the published criteria do not provide for a prolonged extension period. The decision today to provide an additional week is justified and will facilitate prudent application by farmers.”
Letterkenny-Milford Councillor Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly said: “This is great news for farmers as the weather conditions have been terrible the last number of weeks.
“I just hope now that the weather will mend and farmers do get their slurry out.
“I want to once again thank our Minister for Agriculture Charlie Mc Conalogue for doing everything that he can to try to assist and help farmers by again extending the slurry deadline to ensure they get their slurry out this year.”
Minister McConalogue also stated: “Given the need to deliver on our commitments to improving water quality, it is fundamental that slurry is applied under the right conditions and at the right time of year. It is critical that farm practices deliver on water quality. As part of this, nutrient application must align with crop uptake”.
Farmers are reminded to observe the Buffer Zones that apply at this time of the year. In addition, farmers should also be aware that there is no provision in the Regulations (SI No 113 of 2022, as amended) to extend the slurry spreading period beyond the 14th of October.
