Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 June 2014
121. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the work that has been carried out on examining options for plot holders on a bog (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27711/14]
View answerA total of 143 applications for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme, applicable to raised bog special areas of conservation, has been received and acknowledged by my Department in relation to the bog referred to in the Deputy’s Question. Of these, 54 applicants have expressed an interest in relocation to a non-designated bog. Such a bog has been identified and assessed by Bord na Móna in terms of its suitability. The assessment report indicates that 19 turf cutters could be accommodated on the alternative site and my Department has provided a copy of the report to the secretary of the local turf cutters committee. The potential for the accommodation of additional turf cutters on the site is also being investigated by Bord na Móna, in consultation with my Department.
