DARD's pesticides roles and responsibilities

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) is responsible for implementing EU legislation on agricultural pesticides (or plant protection products) in Northern Ireland.

DARD prepares local legislation in line with EU Directives and Regulations, and issues approvals for plant protection products for use in Northern Ireland.

DARD and its agencies also support the work of the Chemicals Regulation Directorate in testing for pesticide residues, and offer training, guidance and advice to users of agricultural pesticides.

The use of pesticides in the home, in gardens,or on amenity lands such as golf courses and parks, lies outside the Department's remit. Advice on these areas can be found by following the link to Contacts and other agencies on the right.