Ministers agree a 7-day extension to the slurry spreading period

In light of the recent wet period of weather and considering the scientific criteria to determine whether the period for slurry spreading can be extended beyond September 30, Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, in consultation with Charlie McConalogue, TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, have agreed to extend the slurry spreading period by 7 days. This is in line with the maximum period that can be granted at present based on the published criteria.

The closed period for slurry spreading will therefore commence on October 8.

Announcing the decision, 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.

“Given the need to deliver on our commitments to improving water quality, it is fundamental slurry is applied under the right conditions and at the right time of year. It is critical that farm practices deliver on water quality. Farmers are reminded to observe Buffer Zones that apply at this time of the year.”

The decision was made after a group of rural TDs and the IFA had released statements earlier today putting pressure on the Ministers to make the extension.

This Ministers said the decision had been made in accordance with the provisions set out in Article 19 (1) of SI No. 113 of 2022 (as amended).