Seven day extension to the slurry spreading period welcomed by Kildare Senator

Safety advice has been issued to drivers of agricultural vehicles

placeholder image — Safety advice has been issued to drivers of agricultural vehicles

A Kildare-based Senator has welcomed the recent extension granted to the slurry spreading season.

Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O’Loughlin welcomed the decision today by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD.

Senator O'Loughlin told the Leinster Leader that, based on the evidence 'which has been assessed against the published criteria', the closed period will now commence on October 15, 2023.

Welcoming the decision, Senator O'Loughlin said: "Today’s decision to extend the slurry spreading period is hugely welcome for farmers here in Kildare due to the impact of unseasonable weather conditions this summer and during September on conditions for slurry applications.

"The decision is particularly welcome given last week’s significant rainfall.

"Providing an additional week is to the spreading period is justified and will facilitate prudent application by farmers."

Senator Fiona O'Loughlin, Fianna Fáil (File photograph).

She continued: "The decision has been made in accordance with the provisions set out in Article 19 (1) of SI No. 113 of 2022 (as amended).

"Farmers are reminded to observe the Buffer Zones that apply at this time of the year.

"In addition, farmers should also be aware that there is no provision in the Regulations (SI No 113 of 2022, as amended) to extend the slurry spreading period beyond October 14," Senator O'Loughlin concluded.

The Senator also made headlines earlier today when she called on the government to provide business supports for South Kildare business owners ahead of Budget 2024.