The introduction of a "credible" planning exemption for slurry storage facilities is an "urgent priority", the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) has said.

According to IFA environment chair John Murphy, this is a "crucial step" in helping farmers to manage organic nutrients "more effectively and maximise the value of this important resource".

His comments come as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published its latest water quality monitoring report, which showed there was a 10% national reduction in river nitrate concentrations during 2024, “with reductions observed in all regions”.

However, the EPA cautioned that “nitrate concentrations remain too high in many parts of the country”.

According to the EPA's ‘Water Quality Monitoring Report on Nitrogen and Phosphorous Concentrations in Irish Waters 2024‘, phosphorus concentrations in rivers are stable – with “no significant change in the last year”.

Murphy said the latest EPA report "shows that the collaborative, whole-of-sector and whole-of-government approach is yielding results in improving water quality across the country".

“We have seen a massive effort in recent years to refine the advice and support to farmers, so they better understand the pressures on their local waterbodies, to support them to take targeted action to mitigate the risks and improve water quality," Murphy said.

"It is great to see that this work and investment by farmers is delivering water quality improvements.

"However, further progress is still needed - particularly in the south east and midlands/eastern regions - where nitrate concentrations remain above good ecological thresholds."

Murphy highlighted the importance of ongoing advisory and financial supports, such as the Better Farming for Water campaign and the Farming for Water EIP, which "help farmers adopt new practices and invest in infrastructure to mitigate agricultural pressures on water".

“It is vital that we continue to support farmers in their efforts," he added.