Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 October 2004
179 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will allow additional compensation to be given to bog owners who sold their turbary rights to Dúchas prior to the year 2000 in line with the commitment given by Dúchas at the time of purchase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24918/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the cessation of turf cutting scheme, operated by my Department, all sales of bogs and turbary rights are entered into voluntarily. All parties entering into an agreement prior to the new rates being announced agreed to the compensation rates applicable at that time.
However, for bogs designated prior to 2002, the new additional incentive payment recently announced will be applied retrospectively to those who have already sold bogs or turbary and the £1,000 or €1,270 incentive payment, where already paid, will be deducted.
