The Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) is urging for an extension to the timeframe for the application of organic fertiliser on farmland. Alongside this, the FCI is advocating for a prolongation of the 14-day cultivation rule for tillage farmers, which mandates the cultivation or sowing of a crop/catch crop within 14 days of harvesting.
The FCI is directing their call to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien, who oversees the Nitrates Directive, and Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue, who holds sole responsibility for tillage matters, to extend the time permitted to farmers under both regulations. The FCI highlights that the current deadline of October 1 for organic fertiliser application is impractical following what can be described as a prolonged 15-month winter period.
Speaking during Agriland’s official livestream of the 2024 National Ploughing Championships, FCI chief executive Michael Moroney expressed the challenges faced by contractors in meeting deadlines. Moroney emphasized the impact of delayed sowing on harvest schedules and the difficulties posed by the 14-day cultivation rule. He stressed the necessity for an extension, citing the need to align regulations with practical realities in the agricultural sector.
“We have asked the minister this week to extend the slurry spreading dates and to utilize available technology, including Met Éireann data and grass data, to justify an extension past October 1 for slurry spreading this year,” Moroney stated. The FCI is urging for flexibility in regulations to accommodate the unique circumstances faced by Irish farmers and contractors.
FCI national chairperson John Hughes echoed Moroney’s sentiments, underscoring the challenges posed by current restrictions on organic fertiliser application. Hughes emphasized the detrimental impact of applying fertiliser in unfavorable conditions, which could compromise the quality of grass crops and subsequent grazing opportunities. The FCI stresses the need for a science-based approach, utilizing technology and real-time data to guide farmers and contractors in making informed decisions.
The association is urging both government departments to leverage technological advancements and research resources to provide accurate measurements of grass growth rates, soil conditions, and weather forecasts. By offering practical advice based on scientific data, the FCI believes farmers can optimize the application of organic fertilisers. The FCI is calling for an immediate announcement of a 15-day extension until October 15 for organic fertiliser application across all farms, emphasizing the importance of timely communication to address industry challenges effectively.
Regarding the 14-day cultivation rule for tillage farmers, the FCI argues that the current timeframe is unrealistic, particularly in cases where adverse weather conditions impact harvesting schedules. The association is urging Minister McConalogue to extend the post-harvest cultivation period to 28 days for all crops this season. Hughes highlighted the demanding nature of agricultural tasks and the need for a more flexible approach to ensure efficient farm management.
“Our FCI members are facing multiple challenges, from combine harvesting to baling, sowing crops, and managing organic fertiliser applications within tight deadlines,” Hughes remarked. The FCI is advocating for a holistic approach that considers the practical realities of farming operations and the need for regulatory flexibility to support sustainable agricultural practices.
