During an implementation dialogue event Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) offered an on-the-ground impact of EU-led directives. In December 2025, the European Commission put forward a proposed environmental simplification package. The package aims to ensure EU environmental goals are achieved in more efficient, less costly and smarter ways, with a focus on industrial emissions, circularity and environmental assessments. Progressive court judgments in the Birds, Habitats and Nitrates Directives have created massive uncertainty, imposed increasing costs and, in some instances, prevented normal farm practices and development. Ms Doyle said: “Our engagement with DG Environment in relation to environmental files affecting farmers, including simplification of the Nitrates and Habitats Directive and the Nature Restoration Law remain a core IFA priority.”

Source: Irish Examiner March 03, 2026 22:47 UTC