asked the Minister for Transport and Power if any statistics are being kept on the use of bogs for fuel by (a) householders and (b) private turf producers; if he has any proposals for their more conservative and efficient use; if he is aware that some bogs are being spoiled by the careless use of machinery; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bog Development.
15.
There are no powers available to me under which I could control the use of bogs by householders and private turf producers. As regards statistics of turf harvested privately, the annual returns of agricultural output, compiled by the Central Statistics Office and published in The Irish Statistical Bulletin, include the estimated quantities of turf harvested privately but separate statistics of private production are not available.
Is the Minister aware of the damage being done to the bogs where stretches are left untouched? This work is not being carried out in a correct manner. If the Minister and his Department are interested in working and developing the bogs, more interest should be taken in that aspect of the work. The bogs are not being developed properly, apart from the work being done by Bord na Móna.
I have no knowledge of any damage being done to the bogs but I will ask Bord na Móna if what the Deputy has said is correct and if it is I will see what can be done in the matter. However, I would remind the Deputy that while I accept what he has said I have no official knowledge of this matter.