This integrated approach by the EPA and the DAFM will deliver an improved service to these operators by reducing the administrative burden and avoiding any potential duplication of effort, while ensuring continued protection of the environment and retaining effective control of the use of such fertiliser.

The control and management of organic fertiliser from licensed pig and poultry units is subject to control under a number of EU Directives and was therefore subject to controls being conducted by both the EPA and the Department. This agreement will see the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine conducting the required checks on the use of pig or poultry manure from licensed establishments and providing the necessary reports to the Agency. The reduced information requirements in relation to organic fertiliser at EPA licensed facilities were communicated to licensees in December.

The Director General of the EPA, Ms Laura Burke, said, "In agreeing this new approach the EPA is seeking to streamline as much as possible the administrative burden on the intensive agriculture sector, while at the same time ensuring that the industry is fully compliant with its environmental responsibilities."

On welcoming the agreement, Minister Coveney said, "This agreement will significantly assist the industry and make the transfer of pig or poultry manure to both new users and existing farms much easier. It will also help towards achieving compliance with the transitional arrangement put in place for the industry as part of the Review of Ireland's Nitrates Action Programme."

The Minister also pointed out that pig or poultry manure is a very valuable nutrient source particularly when used in the spring time.