Macra President and Kilkenny woman Josephine O’Neill warns of ‘devastating consequences’ of potential loss of Ireland’s nitrates derogation

The Macra President is warning of ‘devastating consequences’ tied to the potential loss of Ireland’s nitrates derogation.

Kilkenny woman Josephine O’Neill’s comments came at a National Nitrates Derogation event held in Corrin Mart where she said that while the issue is of concern for all farmers, “it is potentially devastating for our young farmers, new entrants, and the future of our sector.”

She also warned that the knock-on effects would extend far beyond individual farms.

And she issued this appeal; “Minister, as you negotiate our derogation, remember our young farmers. They are the heartbeat of rural Ireland. Without them, farming will have no future.”