An Irish MEP has claimed that there has been "far too much alarmist rhetoric" around the good agricultural and environmental condition on protection of peatlands and wetlands (GAEC 2).

Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Cowen claimed that "some politicians" were "seeking to exploit farmers' genuine concerns for political gain".

The Ireland Midlands--North-West MEP was speaking after receiving what he called "written confirmation" from Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon on GAEC 2.

Cowen said that this message from Minister Heydon came after recent discussions between the two in which the former sough an assurance from the latter that normal agricultural practices would continue on soils affected by GAEC 2.

According to Cowen, the minister's communication reaffirms that these agricultural practices would not be disrupted.

Cowen said that, according to the minister's assurances, ploughing, reseeding and maintenance of existing drainage systems will continue to be permitted under the new standard.

Additionally, there will be no new restrictions on fertiliser use beyond those already in place under nitrates legislation, the MEP said.

He also said that farmers will receive "clear guidance" from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine on which land parcels will be affected and there will be an appeals process for those who believe their land has been incorrectly classified.

Cowen said he also received similar assurances from European Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen at a recent meeting.

However, while welcoming these "commitments", Cowen said he would "continue to monitor the implementation of GAEC 2 to ensure full transparency between the Irish government and the European Commission".

"There has been far too much alarmist rhetoric around GAEC 2, with some politicians seeking to exploit farmers’ genuine concerns for political gain," Cowen said.

"The reality is that this measure is a necessary step to meet our CAP obligations while ensuring that farmers can continue their work with minimal disruption," he added.

"The commitments from Minister Heydon and Commissioner Hansen make it clear that farmers can continue their normal practices without additional unnecessary restrictions," Cowen said.

“I will remain vigilant in ensuring that these assurances are upheld and that there is full transparency between the Irish government and the European Commission. My priority is to make sure that farmers have a clear understanding of their obligations and do not face any undue stress or misinformation," he added.