Macra calls for balanced approach on EU Nitrates Directive evaluation

Commission concludes the Directive remains an effective and relevant tool for protecting water quality

Macra has welcomed the publication of the European Commission's evaluation of the Nitrates Directive, saying it highlights the need for a balanced and practical approach to improving water quality that recognises both the progress made by farmers and the challenges that remain.

The Commission's evaluation concludes that the Directive remains an effective and relevant tool for protecting water quality across the European Union, while identifying opportunities for smarter implementation and more effective delivery of measures.

Macra National President Josephine O'Neill said young farmers are committed to improving water quality and recognise that protecting natural resources is essential for the future of farming and rural communities.

"The European Commission's evaluation acknowledges that the Nitrates Directive is working, but it also recognises that achieving lasting environmental improvements requires practical implementation, investment and time."

Macra said young farmers have invested significantly in recent years in slurry storage, low-emission slurry spreading equipment, protected urea and nutrient management planning. It noted that the Commission's findings also recognise that improvements in water quality can take time to become evident, reflecting the lag between on-farm actions and environmental outcomes.

The organisation warned against portraying farmers as the sole cause of water quality challenges, arguing that farmers are key partners in delivering environmental improvements.

"Our members have made significant investments in better nutrient management, modern slurry storage and low-emission technologies, often at considerable cost. These actions demonstrate that farmers are part of the solution, but we need policies that support continued progress rather than placing additional pressure on farm families who are already delivering real environmental gains."

Macra said policymakers must ensure farmers have access to the infrastructure, advisory services and financial supports needed to deliver further improvements. It called for increased investment in TAMS and other capital support schemes, particularly for nutrient storage, slurry management and water protection measures, alongside long-term funding for initiatives such as the Farming for Water EIP.

The organisation also stressed that future water quality measures should remain evidence-based, practical and proportionate, while supporting the viability of family farms.

Concluding, Macra said the evaluation should strengthen collaboration between policymakers, scientists and farmers to deliver targeted measures that protect water quality while safeguarding the future of farming and rural communities.