Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 May 2012
27 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if turf cutting in conservation areas, by those with turbary rights, will affect the turf cutter’s single farm payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23338/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has primary responsibility for the protection of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) under the Habitats Directive. Certain activities, including turf cutting, are restricted in these areas.
Where a farmer cuts turf on a bog plot where cutting is prohibited then he/she is liable to be penalised under cross compliance if the non-compliance comes to light during a cross-compliance inspection or is cross-reported to my Department by officials from the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. This penalty can apply to payments under the direct payment and any other area related aid schemes.
