In an attempt to enhance the management and safeguarding of rivers in the UK, State Minister for Nature, Heritage, and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, has confirmed that farm assessments will be conducted focussing on nitrate run off. He admitted during an interview on RTÉ radio’s Morning Ireland, that the progress made so far has been unimpressive, echoing the sentiments expressed by Dr Eimear Cotter from the Environmental Agency (EPA). A June report by the EPA stated that the quality of water in rivers, lakes, and groundwaters had not improved by 2023.
The River Basin Management plan has three main objectives: preventing pollution and working towards its reduction, allowing more rivers to flow naturally and restoring their ecological features, and persistently investing in water infrastructure. Progress has been noted in areas such as climate action and biodiversity, Mr Noonan admitted, but similar improvement in water quality has not been observed. However, he stated that significant progress will be achieved with the new River Basin Management plan, which represents a significant shift from prior plans.
Mr Noonan emphasised the vital necessity of maintaining the nitrates derogation, stating that decision-making will be rooted in evidence. He also revealed that sixty new employees will be hired by local authorities to conduct increased inspections. He noted that every agency is expected to contribute towards the execution of the plan.
Up to 4,500 farms will be inspected annually by the additional staff, Mr Noonan further stated. This is meant to help farmers implement the correct measures to deter runoff.
Additionally, the new plan calls for a comprehensive review of the notably outdated Arterial Drainage Act from 1945. The Minister deemed this as crucial in light of the current emphasis on nature restoration as the legislation is no longer fit for purpose.