Strict Pesticide Regulations Passed

Written by Cian MacSweeny
Sunday, 06 July 2008
New regulations on sprays and pesticides were passed at the recent Farm Council meeting in Luxembourg. Tillage farmers have reacted angrily to these new restrictions which will limit the range of sprays and pesticides that can be used on crops. IFA grain committee chairman, Colum McDonnell, has called for an in depth assessment to determine the impact these tightened safety standards will have on the cereal, vegetable and fruit-growing sectors. He said the new restrictions would see a removal of 80% of the active ingredients used in existing plant protection products. He said, "We need a thorough impact assessment on the full implications of this initiative on the growing of cereals, vegetables and fruit." This would have a serious impact on crop yields. Mr Mc Donnell added, "If these measures are introduced in their entirety then we could see a 40pc to 60pc cut in wheat and barley yields." The new restrictions were introduced by Commissioner Androulla Vassiliou, the EU Health Directorate. These proposals ban the use of any active ingredients hazardous to human health, however some allowances will be made for certain products. The new measures won't actually affect current products until they have to be re-registered. Ireland East MEP Mairead McGuinness noted that the impact of the legislation on plant yields and food production will have to closely monitored but accepted that the regulations would maintain a high level of protection for humans. She concluded that farmers are now faced with new challenges and opportunities under these new regulations.

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