The Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue today announced that 2021 Nitrates Derogation applications can now be submitted using the Departments on-line portal, www.agfood.ie Farmers are advised to contact their agricultural advisor to determine if they should avail of this facility.
The Nitrates Derogation provides farmers an opportunity to farm at higher stocking rates, subject to certain conditions designed to protect the environment and meet the requirements of the Nitrates Directive.
The online system is aimed at simplifying the application process and assisting farmers to avoid penalties. The closing date for applications is 31st March 2021. Farmers who applied for a derogation in 2020 are also reminded they must submit 2020 Fertiliser Accounts for 2020 by 31st March 2021 also.
