HomeMy WebLinkAbout2660018 - Submission - J Johnston / GrowersIr
ne following submission is on behalf of the growers listed on page 2 of this submission
23 February 2026
Re: Planning Application Ref. 2660018 —Proposed Biogas Plant at Maghernakelly,
Drum, Co. Monaghan
Dear Sir/Madam,
We wish to submit our strong support for the above planning application for biogas plant
development. This part of County Monaghan is a well -established hub of broiler production,
with a significant concentration of poultry enterprises forming an important part of both the
local and national agricultural economy. As someone directly involved in food production, I
understand the responsibilities and realities of operating within a regulated and
environmentally accountable framework.
the proposed biogas plant represents a practical and progressive development for this
region. It is specifically designed to process organic waste materials and convert
them into renewable energy. This is a responsible and sustainable solution that supports
both agriculture and Ireland's broader renewable energy and climate objectives.
A facility of this nature complements existing farming operations by providing a
structured and controlled outlet for organic by-products, while producing renewable energy
and organic fertiliser (digestate) as part of a circular agricultural model
. Regulatory requirements around animal manures a storage capacity, closed
periods, and land application continue to tighten. In addition, there is ongoing uncertainty
regarding nitrates derogation limits and future stocking rate thresholds. These factors create
significant operational, financial, and administrative pressure on farming families.
The cumulative impact of compliance demands, regulatory change, rising input costs, and
market volatility is placing considerable mental strain on many within the farming community.
Farmers are expected to meet ever-increasing environmental standards while maintaining
viable businesses. Practical, structured solutions that assist with compliance and nutrient
management can only help reduce some of this pressure.
A properly regulated biogas facility offers such a solution by providing an additional
managed outlet for organic materials. It helps relieve pressure on on -farm storage, supports
compliance with evolving environmental regulations, and ensures nutrients are processed in
a controlled and traceable manner.
From an economic perspective, the investment will bring both direct and indirect
employment to the area. In rural communities such as ours, this type of capital investment is
critical to maintaining economic vitality. The development will also support ancillary services
including transport, maintenance, and agricultural supply chains.
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The production of organic fertiliser as a by-product is another positive element. This can help
reduce reliance on imported chemical fertilisers and further strengthen sustainable farming
practices locally.
this development represents a practical "win —win" — supporting farmers in meeting
regulatory and environmental obligations while also contributing to renewable energy
production and strengthening the local rural economy.
V'Je believe that properly regulated infrastructure of this kind is essential if rural Ireland is to
remain productive, competitive, and environmentally
responsible. Developments such as this allow agricultural regions like ours to actively
contribute to renewable energy generation while managing organic materials in a controlled
and environmentally sound manner.
Summary of Support
In summary, We support this application because:
• It represents significant rural investment in County Monaghan
• It will create direct and indirect local employment
• It supports farmers in managing slurry storage and regulatory compliance
• It provides greater certainty amid ongoing nitrates derogation uncertainty
It helps ease operational and compliance pressures within the farming community
• It aligns with sustainable agriculture and renewable energy goals
• It is appropriately located within an established agricultural hub
• It supports circular farming through renewable energy and organic fertiliser
production
This submission is supported by the poultry farmers listed below who share these views
and recognise the importance of sustainable rural economy and enviroment
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