Passing of nature restoration law ‘a black day for Irish Farmers’ - Fitzmaurice
Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice pictured with MEP Ciaran Mullooly during the flooding at Lough Funshinagh. Pic. Gerard O'Loughlin
The passing of the nature restoration law this morning in Brussels is ‘a black day for Irish Farmers’, especially those on peaty soil, according to Roscommon-Galway TD, Michael Fitzmaurice.
The Independent Ireland TD Michael Fitzmaurice believes that the development marked a “significant and troubling development” for Irish farmers working on peaty soil.
Backed by the Green Party’s Leader Eamon Ryan, the law has far-reaching implications that Michael Fitzmaurice TD believes have not been fully considered, particularly for those farming in rural areas of Ireland: “I have always stated that between now and 2030, the state will be able to manage the transition.
“However, the real problem will emerge post-2030, especially for smaller farmers farming on peaty soil across this country. The entire economic and social ecosystem of Rural Ireland is in jeopardy,” he said.
Deputy Fitzmaurice claimed there had been a persistent campaign from the Green Party, supported by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, pushing for this legislation.
“We've seen what happens once European elections are over—other countries capitulate, and this law gets through without resistance. The result is that Irish farmers will bear the brunt of these political decisions.”
The Roscommon-Galway TD further emphasised the long-term impact, warning: “Twelve to fifteen years ago, I cautioned about the Habitats Directive and its consequences. Unfortunately, the people of Lough Funshinagh have found out the hard way that a turlough takes priority over their homes and livelihoods - this is bad law.
“Today, I am warning about the nature restoration law. Farmers and the public must understand that we are being gradually shut down."
He also highlighted what he saw as the regional impacts of the nature restoration law. “The West, the Midlands, the North West, and the South West will experience severe consequences down the road. The European Elections aren’t over a wet week and it’s plough-on from Europe."
With this law now ratified, the focus shifts to its implementation and the potential repercussions for the agricultural sector.
He said the call to action is clear: stakeholders must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the challenges posed by this new regulation.
“Voluntary is the buzzword, but if you look for CAP next year and you are from peaty soil you will have to undertake not to shore, drain, or plough your lands once your application is in.
“So, if that’s voluntary I’d hate to see compulsory legislation because farmers cannot survive without their CAP payment,” he said.
