Contractors welcome local approach to safe spraying
The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) welcomes Defra’s response to the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution’s report on crop spraying, particularly its practical, proportionate approach to communication between farmers and residents bordering agricultural land.
Commenting, Jill Hewitt, NAAC Chief Executive explained, ‘We are pleased that Defra has recognised that sprayer operators are already a highly trained, well-regulated sector of the industry. They are serious about their businesses and serious about the need to protect the safety of the public and environment.’
‘The response advocates the need for local co-operation between farmers/sprayer operators and residents. We agree that this is the most sensible and practical way forward and we will continue to work with our contracting members, Government and other organisations to ensure that the interests of all parties are properly safeguarded.’
‘The NAAC will continue to encourage its members to liaise with their customers and residents to promote a positive dialogue at a local level to ensure that the public can feel reassured about the safety of the spraying operation.
The spraying operations is a highly visible, sensitive operation and contractors simply cannot afford to make mistakes – every job is an advert for their business therefore it must be done properly. This is a professional industry and the success of the Voluntary Initiative shows the commitment of our sector to follow best practice.’
The Full report is available at: www.defra.gov.uk/news/2006/060720b.htm