Ireland has failed to actively address the country’s water quality-related challenges over the past five years, according to former European Commissioner, Phil Hogan.
This was one of the key messages delivered by Hogan during his address to the 2024 Agricultural Science Association (ASA) annual conference in Co. Kilkenny yesterday (Thursday, September 5).
“These were lost years,” Hogan said.
“The European Commission is very aware of what has been happening in the country. Looking ahead there is a six-month window of opportunity for all stakeholders to come together in a way that addresses the water quality issue in a proactive and cohesive manner.”
The former commissioner made it very clear that if this does not become the case, the implications for Ireland in terms of the country retaining its nitrates derogation could be very significant.
However, he remained upbeat of a successful outcome being achieved where these matters are concerned.
Hogan cited the work carried out to improve water quality in the River Slaney as a role model for the rest of the country to follow.
Hogan in commission
Hogan used his presentation to reflect on the overall impact created on a global stage during his period as European Commissioner for Agriculture (2114-2019) and Trade (2019-2020).
He confirmed that during this period the EU had opened up significantly in terms of its trading policies with the rest of the world.
“And a lot more trade deals could have been achieved had the European Union taken a more flexible and pragmatic approach on occasions,” Hogan said.
He admitted that Europe had been very unprepared for the impact made by Donald Trump during his presidency of the United States.
“This won’t be the case the second time, should Mr. Trump win the upcoming American election,” he said.
“No doubt the commission will have worked through all the policy options that may well come to the fore in the wake of coming political developments in the United States.”
Looking ahead, the former European Commissioner foresaw major pressure coming on future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) budgets.
“And Irish agriculture will have to respond accordingly,” he stressed.
“Farmers must be given confidence in the future of their businesses. One way of achieving this will be to put agricultural co-ops at the very heart of these development processes.
“And this principle can be enacted across all aspects of farming.”
In summing up, Phil Hogan made it clear that he did not intend returning to active politics.