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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Feb 1954

Vol. 144 No. 1

Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Bord na Móna and Kildare Bog.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will ascertain from Bord na Móna whether they intend to proceed with the production of turf on Derrylea bog, Monasterevan, County Kildare.

I am informed by Bord na Móna that Derrylea bog is not suitable for turf production by the board's normal sod turf method, being very heavily timbered. The board have carried out experiments on the production of hydro turf at this bog and further experimental operations are planned for the coming season.

Is the Minister aware that a vast sum of money was spent on the development of this bog, that a considerable quantity of property is lying apparently derelict on the bog and that Bord na Móna are hauling turf 100 miles for use in a nearby generating station, and would he ask Bord na Móna, in view of the serious unemployment situation in the area, to put in some machines capable of being used on portions of the bog which are suitable in order to avoid the hauling of fuel and turf 100 miles, and thus provide much-needed employment in the area?

As I explained, the bog is not suitable for development by the methods which Bord na Móna have now in use.

Is the Minister satisfied that it is not possible to use machinery on the bog in order to avoid hauling turf 100 miles for use in a local generating station?

I am satisfied that Bord na Móna do not consider it to be practicable; I do not propose to interfere with the management.

I do not care whether the Minister does or does not. This House voted money to Bord na Móna. The Minister is paid for answering questions and so long as that is so I will continue to ask them.

The Deputy should come back to the question.

Having said that, Sir, which was provoked by the intolerant attitude of the Minister, might I inquire what sum of money was spent and what property is being rendered useless by a decision of the board to experiment on this bog? After all the money that was spent, the bog is now left in an apparently derelict condition, while there are about 200 unemployed men in the area. The Minister can ask the board that if he likes.

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