merrion street

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine announced the launch of the online registration facility for pesticide advisors and inspectors of pesticide application equipment as part of the implementation of the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive.

The Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive establishes a framework for European Community action to achieve the sustainable use of pesticides by setting minimum rules to reduce risks to human health and the environment from the use of pesticides. It promotes the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) which includes alternative approaches and techniques to chemical use. The implementation of the directive aims to ensure that best practice is the norm at every level in the industry, from storage and distribution through to advice and use. Registration of properly trained individuals is a key requirement of the directive.

Advisors currently practising and inspectors of pesticide application equipment must register with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine by 26th November 2013. In registering, advisors and equipment inspectors commit to participating in continuous professional education in order to maintain their registration. The online registration system is available on the Department website at www.pcs.agriculture.gov.ie/SUD.htm.

The Department took the opportunity to remind others involved in the sale and use of pesticides of other important dates that are set down in the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive.

Professional users and Distributors of plant protection products will be required to be trained and registered by 26th November 2015. Also by this date, distributors must register all premises used for the storage of pesticides, either for sale or supply.

In addition, all boom sprayers greater than 3m and all blast and orchard sprayers must be tested by a registered inspector of pesticide application equipment at least once by 26th November 2016. The interval between inspections must not exceed 5 years until 2020 and must not exceed 3 years thereafter.

Further information on registration and training requirements and hard copies of all registration forms are available on the website www.pcs.agriculture.gov.ie/SUD.htm.