New plan to improve Kilkenny water quality is launched in Thomastown

Speaking at the launch, Professor Frank O’Mara said: “Having good water quality in Ireland is essential to ensuring the long-term success and future growth of Ireland’s agri-food sector. No part of the agricultural industry is unaffected by the consequences of declining water quality, which means every farmer and every sector has a role to play in protecting it.

“The Nore Catchment Better Farming for Water Action Plan demonstrates how collective action can drive real improvements by adopting a multi-actor approach, implementing the 8 Actions for Change, and targeting the right measures in the right place at the right time. I also wish to acknowledge the members of the Nore Catchment Implementation Group Oversight Committee, who have generously volunteered their time and expertise to support the delivery of this plan,” Professor O’Mara added.

Chair of the Nore Catchment Implementation Group, Eamonn Sheehan, said: “I understand first-hand the day-to-day realities of farming and the deep connection farm families have with their land and water. Farmers are not only food producers but long-term custodians of the countryside, and their commitment to protecting natural resources is central to the sustainability of Irish agriculture.”

Paul Nolan of Dawn Meats added: “It is encouraging to see this collective, all-of-sector effort - across both public and private partners - coming together to address the challenge of improving water quality. The campaign will build on existing programmes such as the Agricultural Catchments Programme (ACP), the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP), and the Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP).”

At the launch, a comprehensive booklet was unveiled outlining the six pillars of the Nore Catchment programme. These include stakeholder engagement through a multi-actor approach; raising awareness using detailed water quality maps; structured upskilling programmes for farmers, advisors, teachers, and industry professionals; an impactful knowledge transfer programme; a supporting research programme; and a targeted communications plan.