Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 February 2010
585 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when turf cutting will cease on the 32 designated raised bogs as outlined in the EC natural habitats regulations 1997; the measures that will be put in place to enforce his decision regarding the cessation of turf cutting. [6663/10]
View answer586 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the findings of the cessation of turf cutting working group will be available. [6664/10]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 585 and 586 together.
Following the end of 10-year derogation, turf cutting is now due to cease on 32 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). Within the coming weeks, I expect to receive a report from the inter-departmental working group that I established last year to make recommendations on managing the cessation of turf cutting within these sites. I will conclude my consideration of these recommendations as rapidly as possible, and will then be in touch with affected individuals and representative groups in regard to the position.
