Vol. 518 No. 1
89 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands the number of meetings she has had regarding the problems of turf cutters in areas of raised bogs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10928/00]
I met representatives of the SAC Alliance Action Group. I have also had meetings with several representatives of parties who have an interest in raised bog special areas of conservation as has the Minister of State at my Department, Deputy Ó Cuív.
Officials of Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, have held meetings in nine raised bog SACs to form liaison committees. These committees are the first point of consultation between Dúchas and landowners on matters relating to the designation and management of SACs. Liaison committees also provide a member who will represent the landowner on the special area of conservation appeals board in cases in their area which come to be considered by that body.
Officials have also met with individual cutters who have indicated a wish to discuss their particular cases.
There are a total of 31 raised bog SACs in 12 counties. If the Deputy has a specific bog or area in mind, I could possibly provide him with more details regarding that area.
