Bernard J. Durkan
Question:27 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications his policy in respect of future land use opportunities for peat bogs in the midlands; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Use of Peat Bogs.
It is my policy that boglands in the Midlands from which all peat has been commercially extracted be developed for conversion to grassland, agricultural use, forestry or for amenity or other purposes. Bord na Mona dispose of such lands where they no longer have use for them and, in operating this policy, Bord na Mona have been specifically asked to ensure that small farmers are facilitated. Accordingly, such lands are, where possible, being disposed of in small lots. Furthermore, Coillte 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 Teo. on an equal basis.
As indicated in the National Development Plan. I am seeking EU funding towards the costs of carrying out of a detailed study into the amenity, tourism and wildlife potential of cutaway bogs which are unsuitable for agriculture, grassland and forestry and which may be put to better use as wetlands. Discussions are still ongoing with the EU Commission in relation to their funding the study.
Furthermore, in co-operation with my colleague, Deputy Liam Hyland, Minister of State with responsibility for rural development, a midlands cutaway bogs development group is being set up to ensure that the maximum benefit is derived from these lands.