Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 December 2020
160. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if an adequate programme of consultation with land owners, occupiers, farmers and farm organisations prior to the commencement of re-wetting in relation current proposals in respect of the re-wetting of peat lands in the midlands and with particular reference to County Offaly will be ensured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40850/20]
View answerGovernment approval last week of funding of up-to €108million for the Bord Na Móna Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme (EDRRS) reaffirms our commitment to addressing the climate and biodiversity crisis' we are facing and to ensuring a just transition in the midlands region. The scheme will protect the storage of 100 million tonnes of carbon, sequester 3.2 million tonnes of carbon out to 2050, enhance biodiversity, create jobs and will contribute to Ireland’s target of being carbon-neutral by 2050. Bord an Móna must submit a plan for each bog to both the National Parks and Wildlife Services in respect of this scheme and to the Environmental Protection Agency in respect of works required to meet their IPC licence obligations. As part of this process, Bord Na Móna will consult with affected stakeholders, including those that are based in County Offaly.
