Now that the Nitrates Derogation has been secured for a further 3 years, the focus turns back to all those who need to focus on improving our water quality. Whilst there have been many contributors to the deterioration in water quality and it easy to deflect attention onto others, there is no doubt as one of the bigger beneficiaries, that agriculture plays its part. 

Centenary Thurles likewise cannot put the responsibility directly back on farmers – we have to do what we can to promote and encourage better farming practices. The Teagasc Better Farming for Water Campaign has established 8 Catchment Implementation Groups to focus on improving water quality in the rivers Barrow, Blackwater, Boyne, Lee, Nore Slaney and Suir. Centenary Thurles will participate in the Suir Catchment Implementation Group. We will be represented by Thomas Dwan, a Committee Member and Dairy Farmer bounding the Suir and also by John Martin. The launch of this well-attended programme took place at the Anner Hotel, Thurles on 23rd January last. There will be an overall steering committee for the 8 catchments, chaired by Jim Bergin and will include representatives from the farming organisations, Teagasc, EPA, Dairy and Meat Industry Ireland, DAFM, Dept. of Housing, etc. 

Separately Centenary Thurles is commencing a focus at sub-catchment level and is currently focussed on the Clonmore River. A meeting was held in Clonmore Hall on 21st January and action including applications for EIP Funding has already commenced. 

We can all contribute to improving water quality and simple changes by many can make this work, leading to a potential improvement in the viability of both dairy and other farm enterprises. 

• Pictured L-R; Thomas Dwan (Centenary Thurles), Pat Dillon (Teagasc), Noel Meehan (Teagasc), Donal Mullane (Teagasc), Edward Carr (Arratipp), Claire Mooney (Teagasc), Joe Kerrigan (CEO Centenary Thurles Co-op) and John Martin (Centenary Thurles).