Patrick D. Harte
Question:18 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications his policy in relation to cutaway bogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Cutaway Bogs.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:55 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the estimated date by which most of the bogs at present being worked by Bord na Móna will be exhausted, the plans, if any, the Government has for subsequent use of cutaway bogs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 55 together.
There are varying estimates as to when Bord na Móna's current reserve of bogs will be depleted. The generally accepted period is the decade 2020 to 2030.
The future disposal of cutaway bog was the subject of a report which was published in January 1992. The recommendations in the report which relate to my area of responsibility have been implemented. Arrangements have been put in place to ensure that small farmers are facilitated in competing for cutaway bog suitable for conversion to grassland. Specifically such land will, where possible, be disposed of in small lots. The other main recommendation was that Coillte Teoranta should no longer have first option on cutaway suitable for afforestation. Such lands are now offered for sale on the open market. This enables private forestry concerns to compete with Coillte Teoranta on an equal basis. The report made a number of recommendations in relation to the amenity, environmental and development potential of cutaway bogs. These are not areas where I have a function as Minister but I would welcome any initiative which would exploit that potential.