Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:1253. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will address a matter (details supplied) regarding a bog; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2750/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 5 March 2020
Ceisteanna (1253)
Freagraí scríofa
An application for compensation under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme had been received by my Department in respect of the bog plot referred to in the Deputy’s Question. With respect to 53 raised bog special area of conservation sites, the qualifying criteria for the scheme are that:
- The applicant must have had a legal interest (ownership or a turbary right (right to cut turf)) in one of these sites on 25 May 2010 and must have had the right to cut and remove turf from the property on that date;
- The applicant must have been cutting turf on the land in question during the relevant five year period (up to 31 December 2011 in respect of the 24 raised bog special areas of conservation nominated for designation in 2002, which includes the site in question);
- The turf resource on the bog plot has not been exhausted; and
- No turf cutting or associated activity is ongoing on the property.
I have been advised that a decision has been taken by my Department that all of the qualifying criteria of the scheme have not been fulfilled in respect of this application. The individual referred to in the Deputy's Question has been informed of this decision and advised that he may request a Departmental review of the decision. If the decision is upheld at the Departmental review stage, an appeal against the decision may be made to the Peatlands Council.