Local Elections: Peter Nolan says 'Organic farming is the way to go'

The Mayo County Council has been a tough arena for the Green party with no councillors elected in the county's history. Peter Nolan is one of two Green candidates trying to break new ground this time. He points lout the feedback he is getting is very positive:

“The response at the door has been overwhelming. 95% of Irish people get that we need to protect what we’ve got in terms of environment and ecology.”

The 60-year-old Nolan is an organic farmer from Louisburgh.

“The future of farming globally is a green future. We are only starting to understand the importance of the quality of the food we consume. It’s fundamental to our health. I encourage Irish farmers to farm organically and grow the most nutritious food as possible.”

Being a Green politician and pro-farming is essential to Peter Nolan's philosophy.

“The right way is by becoming the farmer’s party. We protect their livelihood. It is counterintuitive but its a fact” says Nolan and goes on to explain that Ireland does have a renowned farming tradition with great food quality. But improvement is key, he says:

“We need to improve our food chain as pesticide and fertilizer free as and anti-biotic free which only ups the quality and that ups the price. Ireland has to position itself as a world leader in organic food production. It would be a huge boost to our agriculture. Protect what we have and improve it.”

Nolan claims that organic farming wouldn't be difficult. If an animal were sick, it would be treated if necessary but we shouldn't feed anti-biotics as a preventative measure.

“It makes financial sense for famers to go organic, especially for small farmers. It’s time for governments to get things right.”

Peter Nolan is also a strong advocate of the Greenway extension to Louisburgh, stating it would open up the village and increase its connectivity, for commuters, tourists and locals alike as it would encourage cycling from and into the Louisburgh.

Nolan also prioritises housing and wants to tackle dereliction and vacancy when elected to the Mayo County Council.

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