Louth Senator Erin McGreehan has said that positive changes have taken place in Irish farming and local farmers are making efforts to protect water quality.

She said that engaging with the Commission on the nitrates derogation is not about being soft on farmers and environmental standards, but is instead about ensuring that the Commission is aware of how farmers are working to protect water quality.

McGreehan said: “I believe that the EU Commission must look at Irelands farming practices and the work that is ongoing.

“I recently attended a Lakeland Dairies event, on protecting our waters, in Longford. At the event, I met with Louth man Niall Matthews, the Chair of Lakeland Dairies and saw first-hand how a farm in Longford, owned by Eddie Fitzpatrick, showcased how he is working to protect his water courses.

“I strongly believe that pushing the Commission to protect the derogation is not about being soft on farmers and environmental standards, but that it is about looking at the work that has been done and the positive changes that have taken place.

“It is about enforcement and ensuring that the Commission understands how we farm.”