Teagasc Director Emphasizes Importance of Good Water Quality for Irish Agriculture
Teagasc director Prof Frank O’Mara has highlighted the crucial role of water quality in maintaining strong export opportunities for Irish meat, dairy, and grain products. In a recent announcement, O’Mara stressed the need for enhanced farm practices across all agricultural sectors to uphold Ireland’s green image and sustainability credentials.
The seven-year Teagasc-led Better Farming for Water campaign aims to address water quality issues nationwide, not limited to regions affected by nitrates derogation. O’Mara emphasized that water quality is a fundamental concern for all citizens and communities, impacting both public health and environmental sustainability.
With exports playing a significant role in the Irish agriculture industry, O’Mara underscored the importance of positive associations with water quality for dairy, beef, sheep, and tillage farmers. He acknowledged current efforts in the farming sector to improve water quality but called for increased resources and ambition to amplify the impact of existing initiatives.
The launch of this major campaign signals a collective effort to prioritize water quality in Irish agriculture, emphasizing its intrinsic connection to sustainability and global competitiveness. Farmers are encouraged to enhance their focus on water quality to uphold Ireland’s reputation as a responsible and environmentally-conscious producer.