farmers get extra week for slurry spreading
Agricultural leaders have granted a one-week extension to the slurry spreading deadline due to exceptional drought conditions. The new deadline extends to 7 October, requiring farmers to register with the department before applying nutrients.
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Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, have jointly announced a one-week extension to the national slurry spreading deadline. This decision responds to the exceptional weather patterns observed this summer, specifically the drought that affected the south and southeast of the country and the subsequent surge in grass growth. The closed period for slurry application will now commence on Thursday 8 October, allowing farmers until Wednesday 7 October to complete their spreading operations.
Minister Heydon noted that the extension aims to alleviate workload pressures on farms, where many animals remained indoors longer than usual while covers were repaired and second and third cut harvesting was delayed. Both ministers confirmed that the Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters Regulations permit such extensions when specific criteria are satisfied. To avail of this additional time, farmers must register with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in advance of spreading by emailing [email protected] or phoning 053 916 3425 and quoting their herd number.
While the extension provides necessary flexibility, the government has emphasised a zero-tolerance approach to environmental compliance. Inspectors from local authorities and the Department will strictly enforce the closed period to protect water quality. Anyone found spreading slurry or soiled water outside the permitted dates will face immediate enforcement action, underscoring the balance between supporting farmers and safeguarding the environment.
Minister Heydon noted that the extension aims to alleviate workload pressures on farms, where many animals remained indoors longer than usual while covers were repaired and second and third cut harvesting was delayed. Both ministers confirmed that the Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters Regulations permit such extensions when specific criteria are satisfied. To avail of this additional time, farmers must register with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in advance of spreading by emailing [email protected] or phoning 053 916 3425 and quoting their herd number.
While the extension provides necessary flexibility, the government has emphasised a zero-tolerance approach to environmental compliance. Inspectors from local authorities and the Department will strictly enforce the closed period to protect water quality. Anyone found spreading slurry or soiled water outside the permitted dates will face immediate enforcement action, underscoring the balance between supporting farmers and safeguarding the environment.
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