Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the announcement of a one-week extension to the slurry spreading deadline.

Slurry application will now be permitted up to Wednesday, 7 October 2026, with the closed period commencing on Thursday, 8 October.

The extension has been announced in response to exceptional weather conditions over the summer and the recent increase in grass growth in areas previously affected by drought.

Minister Canney said: “This is a practical and important measure for farmers who have faced very challenging conditions this year.

“The drought over the summer created significant difficulties on many farms, with livestock housed for periods and second and third cuts of silage delayed.

“The additional week will give farmers more time to manage slurry ahead of the closed period, where weather and ground conditions are suitable.”

Farmers who wish to avail of the extension must register with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in advance of spreading.

Registration can be completed by emailing [email protected] or calling 053 916 3425, quoting the farmer’s herd number.