Macra Calls for Increased TAMS Funding to Deliver Water Quality Improvements

Responding to the latest EPA water quality report, Macra expressed disappointment that the significant efforts and investments made by farmers in recent years are not yet being more clearly reflected in water quality outcomes. The organisation reiterated that improving and protecting water quality must remain a top priority, while emphasising that meaningful progress can only be achieved through practical, evidence-based measures
that support farmers rather than place additional burdens upon them.

Macra noted that young farmers are committed to adopting sustainable farming practices and have demonstrated a willingness to embrace change where it is supported by advice, clear scientific evidence and appropriate funding. The organisation emphasised that young farmers play a critical role as custodians of the land and are central to delivering long-term environmental improvements across rural Ireland.

The organisation also highlighted the substantial investments made by many young farmers in recent years, including improvements in slurry storage, the adoption of protected urea, investment in low-emission slurry spreading equipment, nutrient management planning and a range of other measures designed to reduce
nutrient losses and improve environmental outcomes.

Macra National President Josephine O'Neill said: “Our young farmers have a keen understanding of the significant role we play in protecting water quality. In recent years, we have committed to improving water quality by investing in new infrastructure and adapting sustainable farming practices. We fully realise the role we play as on-the-ground environmentalists – we understand the importance of water quality and are committed to continuing to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to improve and protect water quality”

Macra said that if Government is serious about improving water quality outcomes, it must ensure that farmers have access to the infrastructure and technology needed to deliver those improvements. The organisation called for increased investment in TAMS, particularly for nutrient storage, slurry management and water protection measures. Macra noted that many farmers are willing to make further environmental improvements, but the cost of additional storage capacity and infrastructure can be prohibitive without adequate support. The organisation also reiterated its call for TAMS reference costs to be reviewed and updated to reflect current construction and material costs, ensuring that grant aid remains meaningful and accessible. Investing in farm infrastructure, Macra said, is one of the most effective ways to achieve long-term improvements in water quality while maintaining the viability of family farms.

Macra also called for long-term funding commitments for successful water quality initiatives, such as the Farming for Water EIP, noting that schemes that support farmers in delivering practical environmental improvements must be adequately resourced and maintained over the long term to achieve lasting results. The organisation said certainty around funding is essential to encourage participation and allow farmers to plan and
invest with confidence.

The organisation further emphasised the importance of ensuring that future water quality measures remain grounded in robust scientific evidence and practical on-farm realities. Macra said that while policy measures should be informed by science, their successful implementation will depend on clear communication, appropriate advisory supports and an understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing farmers on the ground.

Targeted, evidence-based measures, supported by adequate resources, will be key to achieving long-term water quality objectives.

Macra also stressed the importance of ensuring that farmers are actively involved in the development of future water quality measures. The organisation said that the next phase of water policy must be shaped through meaningful engagement with those working on the ground every day, recognising the practical realities of farming while identifying solutions that deliver measurable environmental improvements. Macra noted that
targeted, evidence-based measures developed in partnership with farmers will be far more effective than one-size-fits-all approaches in achieving long-term water quality objectives.

Macra concluded by reiterating that further environmental measures must be accompanied by adequate financial supports and practical implementation pathways for farmers.