Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:687. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the status of moanveanlagh bog (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47735/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 19 November 2019
Ceisteanna (687)
Freagraí scríofa
As set out in the National Raised Bog Special Areas of Conservation Management Plan 2017-2022, Moanveanlagh Bog special area of conservation is one of the bogs identified for assessment as regards the potential for domestic turf cutting on the site in accordance with the provisions of article 6.3 of the EU Habitats Directive.
Scientific investigations concluded that, in a small area within the site, turf cutting there would not have an adverse impact on the (ecological) integrity of the special area of conservation. Domestic turf cutting could take place there subject to consent being received from the relevant public authority and consultation with the landowner and turbary right holders, if any.
For a larger plot of land within the site, the findings of concentrated geophysical and hydrological investigations indicate that any turf cutting there would require monitoring of the turf cutting for an estimated period of a year to assess the level of risk of peat failure (bog burst). In advance of any turf cutting taking place in this area, consent would also be required from the relevant public authority and consultation would have to take place with the landowner and turbary right holders, if any.
I am advised that my Department is continuing to try to resolve outstanding access matters. If the Deputy feels that he would be able to assist, officials from my Department are available to discuss further.