asked the Minister for Energy if Bord na Móna will extend their bog development operations at Kilraine, County Donegal; and if they have any proposals to develop the bogs at Carrickatslieve, Glenties. County Donegal.
Written Answers. - County Donegal Bog Development.
273.
I have been informed by Bord na Móna that they are producing peat from about 1,000 acres of bog at Kilraine, Glenties, County Donegal. There is extensive blanket bog in surrounding areas including Kilraine and Carrickatslieve, but the board have informed me that this bog is unsuitable for development by them.
The Turf Development Bill, 1980, which I have introduced in the Dáil, proposes that funds be made available to enable Bord na Móna, subject to general directives as to policy to be given by me as Minister for Energy, to make grants available for private development of bogs, including bogs, which, because of their nature or size, are not suitable for development by the board. Grant aid will extend to the cost of access roads, drainage and bog development equipment. When the legislation is enacted it will then be open to persons interested in the private development of bogs to make application to Bord na Móna for grant assistance. I hope to take the remaining Stages of the Bill early in the current Dáil session.