Sinn Féin is dedicated to safeguarding Ireland's Nitrates Derogation while also enhancing the quality of the country’s water sources, according to the party’s Agriculture Spokesperson, Martin Kenny TD.

Deputy Kenny criticised the current government's approach, warning that if it continues, the derogation may soon be lost. He pointed out that this year's further restrictions were a result of the flawed review process agreed upon by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.

Teachta Kenny said: "Sinn Féin have always recognised the need to protect water sources and to do so in a way that allows our farming families to produce the top-quality food for which Ireland is renowned. We believe that with the right approach these objectives can both be met while maintaining Ireland’s derogation to the Nitrates Directive.

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"However, it is imperative that government pursue a science-led, partnership approach with farmers and other stakeholders. Such an approach should utilise modern technology on farms and ensure that all other sources of water pollution are also tackled.

"The current government has already overseen the further restriction of the derogation because they agreed to a flawed review mechanism. It was Sinn Féin that challenged the government on this failure and the inaction of the Minister for Agriculture in advance of that review.

"The continuation of that approach will result in the end of Ireland’s derogation. That was the point I made to agri-journalists recently. This is no way suggests that we should throw in the towel or just accept the trajectory that the Fianna Fáil/Fine Gael/Green Party government have set. It reinforces the need for a change of government. Sinn Féin in government will protect and improve our water sources and Ireland’s family farmers, including defending the Nitrates Derogation."