Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 July 2021
215. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if it will be ensured that peatlands are harvested in such a way that they are in the best possible condition for a planned and structured restoration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37988/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no function in relation to setting such development conditions for peat extraction. In the first instance the regulation of peat extraction takes place via the Planning system, in relation to which I have no function. Where a development additionally requires an Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) license, this is a matter for the Environmental Protection Agency. The Agency is an independent statutory body and I have no role in relation to the exercise of its licencing and/or enforcement functions.
