Farming bodies IFA and ICMSA release joint statement on Water Supply Project

The Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) and The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association (ICMSA) have been involved in a negotiating process with Uisce Ėireann on the Eastern and Midlands Water Supply Project for a number of months.

The process was undertaken with a view to agreeing a package that would be offered to landowners whose lands are on the proposed pipeline route.

Uisce Eireann has now sent an offer pack out to farmers on the route.

While the discussions between the negotiating teams have concluded, the final outcome has yet to go before the governing bodies of our organisations for approval.

Prior to the negotiations commencing, both the IFA and ICMSA made it clear to Uisce Ėireann that such approval would be sought and required.

They have now released a joint statement on the matter.

"We advised Uisce Eireann that we would put the proposed agreement to the scheduled meetings of our governing bodies in early September.

"The compensation package and associated items will still be put the governing bodies for approval at that point.

"We are disappointed that Uisce Ėireann chose to issue the offer pack to landowners in the absence of a final agreement with IFA and ICMSA.

"We have told Uisce Ėireann that their September deadline for farmers to accept the offer is far too premature and suggest that they should extend this deadline by a number of weeks.

"Both organisations will issue a further update once the package has been brought in front of their respective governing bodies.

"Farmers on the route should take the time to read the package on offer and consult with qualified advisers. They should not feel pressured by this communication from Uisce Ėireann."

READ NEXT: Longford PhD student triumphs in four competitions at the Leinster Fleadh Cheoil

READ NEXT: Connection between Co Longford's Ballinamuck and France's Essert continues