Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the studies or assessments thata have been carried out regarding the concerns of flooding as a result of the regeneration process in a raised bog special areas of conservation (details supplied) in County Kildare; if there are plans to carry out further studies; if he will consider the provision of some funding to communities in the affected areas to carry out their own investigations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4620/13]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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I assume that the Deputy is referring to Mouds Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in Co Kildare. The approach which my Department is taking to the restoration of Raised Bogs in SACs is set out in the document National Raised Bog SAC Management Plan – Proposed Approach, which is available on my Department’s website at . As has been identified in that document, the impacts of potential changes to existing drainage are of specific concern.

Following a request for tender, my Department is currently assessing proposals by specialists to undertake the necessary survey work for each of the 53 sites, including Mouds Bog SAC. This will include topographical and hydrological survey and modelling, which will be required for restoration plans to be put in place. I understand the particular concerns of landowners in Mouds Bog SAC. I can advise that restoration measures will be undertaken in a fully considered and structured way and following full consultation with affected parties.

Conservation and restoration work will require funding, as will the ongoing management of our protected raised bog resources. This is an issue which is under consideration by my Department and the Peatlands Council, including how best to include local communities in this work. My officials will be happy to discuss with local communities the results of the topographical and hydrological survey work which my Department is now commissioning and to consider at that stage if additional specific advice needs to be sought.