Special Areas of Conservation.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 4 March 2010

Thursday, 4 March 2010

Questions (107)

Willie Penrose

Question:

130 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an extension will be afforded to persons who are cutting bogs for their own domestic consumption and which bogs were designated to close in 2011 and 2012 under the special area of conversion and natural heritage area; his plans, in respect of a bog (details supplied) which is listed to be officially closed, as the said bog is used by a considerable number of personnel, to produce turf for domestic consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11010/10]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Deputy John Gormley)

Turf cutting on the bog in question, which is a designated raised bog Natural Heritage Area, is due to cease by end 2013, on the expiry of the 10 year period of grace that was allowed following its designation in 2004. Turf cutting can continue on the 96% of bogs that are not designated raised bogs.

In the light of the damage caused by turf cutting and associated drainage to the small number of designated raised bogs, which contain priority habitats under the Habitats Directive, there are no plans to extend the period during which cutting can continue on these bogs.

Last year I established an Inter-Departmental Working Group on the Cessation of Turf Cutting in Designated Raised Bogs. The Group is nearing completion of its deliberations and I expect to receive its report very shortly. I will conclude my consideration of the report and any recommendations it contains as rapidly as possible, and will then be in touch with affected individuals and representative groups in regard to the position.