Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 24 Feb 1999

Vol. 501 No. 1

Written Answers. - Special Areas of Conservation.

Ulick Burke

Ceist:

163 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the plans, if any, to allow people to continue to harvest turf in the Clonmoylan area and adjoining boglands where special areas of conservation restrictions were waived in the 1998 season; if similar relief will be provided to people for turf cutting for the 1999 season; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5471/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera):

Following an extensive consultation process, I recently announced arrangements, including compensation, for turf cutting in raised bog special areas of conservation. I am sending a copy of my statement to the Deputy and urge affected landowners or cutters from the Cloonmoylan area to contact local officials of Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, who will be pleased to discuss matters with them.