The extension to the closed period for the spreading of chemical and organic fertilisers is good news for hard pressed local farmers says Cork East Fine Gael TD and Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton.

“I was delighted to see that the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed TD, has announced an extension for fertiliser and slurry spreading. The deadline for chemical fertiliser has been extended from mid-September until the end of September, and the deadline for the application of organic manures from mid-October to the end of October. This is a very positive step for farmers many of whom are struggling following the series of extreme weather events experienced this year”, noted Minister Stanton

“The extensions are part of a series of initiatives, including the Fodder Production Incentive Measure and GLAS payment flexibilities, to assist farmers to maximise fodder production from their own land in the current growing season. Although fodder imports will clearly also have a role, the immediate priority is to maximise fodder production at home as this is the most effective response to any shortfalls.