UFU ACTION WELCOMED
LOCAL farmers have welcomed news that the Farmers Union has been given the go ahead to challenge a European Union directive over the disposal of waste.
Under the directive, which is due to come into force in July, farmers will have to register first before disposing of rotten potatoes, branches or clearing mud and debris.
Last Friday the Ulster Farmers' Union was successful in applying for a judicial review of the ruling at the High Court.
Local councillor David Herron, himself a farmer, welcomed the news that the UFU is championing the cause of local farmers on the issue.
"I am sure the farming community would be glad that the Union is pushing this issue," he added.
"Nobody knows when farmers would get a poor year or there is no market for your potatoes and you can't take them to a recycling centre because they won't take them.
"Before you were able to spread them on the land, but now you won't be able to do that without registering," Councillor Herron added.
He fears that the imposition of the new directive could lead to illegal dumping around the district.
"There was one time when potatoes were very bad and in Banbridge district the council allowed them to be buried at the dump at Aughnavallog but now we don't have a dump in the area not everyone would have the place to do that.
"I think this new directive could encourage illegal dumping and I don't want to see any of that going on."
Councillor Herron added that the new directive was just another burden on farmers who have already seen their profits cut in recent years and an increase in red tape and bureaucracy.
At last Friday's hearing Mr Justice Weatherup granted leave to proceed with the case.
The UFU said it intended to apply for interim relief if enforcement is not put off until the judicial review is decided.
The case was adjourned until 25 June when it is hoped to fix a date for hearing.
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Weather for Banbridge
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
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Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 21 C
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Wind direction: East
