Fianna Fáil’s Agriculture Committee has today welcomed confirmation that a proposal will be put forward by the European Commission on the extension of Ireland's nitrates derogation.
The party’s agriculture committee consists of Fianna Fáil Deputies Aindrias Moynihan and Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere and Senator Paul Daly.
Upon their trip to Brussels in September, the committee stressed the unique model of Irish farming and the essential role the derogation plays for family farms across the country.
Speaking on the proposal Senator Daly said:
“This proposal is vital for Irish agriculture. Farmers are already working under extraordinary pressures, and the stability provided by a continued derogation is essential for planning, investment, and long-term environmental progress.”
European member states are expected to consider the proposal in the second week of December, after which it will return to the Commission for formal adoption.
Deputy Aindiras Moynihan, and Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture expressed cautious optimism on the proposal being put forward in December:
“We’re not over the line yet, but this is a very welcome and significant step forward. Farmers have been genuinely worried about heading into the new year without any certainty, so today’s development will come as a relief.”
He added: “The fact that this is going to the December meeting is a strong sign that things are moving in the right direction. What we need now is a practical, workable extension, something that does the job and isn’t tied up in knots and red tape.
“This progress follows ongoing engagement on the issue, and it shows that the consistent pressure has been worthwhile.”
Expressing his appreciation for the work undertaken at EU level to secure progress, Deputy Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere said:
“I want to acknowledge the hard work of Commissioner Michael McGrath in bringing this forward, and to recognise the efforts of former Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue, who consistently championed this issue in Europe.”
“We have shown our commitment on the importance of this to ensure Irish farmers would retain a derogation.
In September, the Fianna Fáil Agriculture Committee met with Commissioner Hansen, raising the importance of the derogation in Brussels. More recently, members of the Oireachtas held constructive discussions with Commissioner Roswall.
These meetings were essential in ensuring Ireland’s case was clearly understood. I want to thank Commissioners Hansen and Roswall for their time, openness, and engagement with us.
This development follows Fianna Fáil’s ongoing commitment to engagement with key EU stakeholders.
In Fianna Fáil we will continue working to secure certainty for farmers and ensure that Irish agriculture remains both competitive and environmentally responsible. This proposal is a positive step forward, and I will continue to advocate strongly for its adoption.
ENDS
Notes to the Editors:
Pictures from Fianna Fáil's Agriculture Committee's visit to Brussels in September 2025.