§ Mrs. DunwoodyTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the implementation of the nitrate-sensitive areas scheme.
§ Mr. CurryThe pilot-nitrate sensitive areas scheme opened in June 1990 and applications last year covered over 50 per cent. of the eligible agricultural land. Additional applications are expected before the scheme finally closes on 31 May this year. Equipment to take water samples in the soil zone has been installed and deep core sampling is also being undertaken.