andMr. Mannion asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will ensure that the forestry section will not acquire turbary for planting so long as there is a demand for it as a source of fuel.
Written Answers. - Turbary Preservation.
152.
I would like to make a distinction between peat lands—which by general definition carry at least 30 centimetres of peat over mineral soil or rock — and turbary, which comprises areas of peatland of sufficient depth — normally one metre at least — and burning quality to make it attractive for peat production.
State forest development must avoid lands of agricultural quality and is confined to marginal lands which in the current situation are often of peat type.
State afforestation could not continue on an acceptable scale without resort to peatland. However, where there is existing turbary activity or evidence of local demand for it these matters are taken into consideration when lands are being acquired. I have also made it known, in the light of the prevailing energy situation that sympathetic consideration would be given to applications from responsible bodies to have such areas made available for fuel production where this is shown to be the appropriate use.
My Department has of course ongoing liaison with Bord na Móna to ensure that our acquisition needs do not conflict.