
The EU is negotiating for the removal of the exemption of the Nitrates Directive for Irish farmers.
There's a warning that removing the Nitrates Derogation could cost 1 in 8 dairy farmers their jobs.
New figures released by IBEC show that up to €45bn of the Irish economy is at risk, due largely to a reduction in dairy exports.
It comes as the EU enters the final phase of negotiations for the removal of the exemption of the Nitrates Directive for Irish farmers.
Laois County Chair of IFA Henry Burns says, there needs to be a balance for the farmers and the economy: