Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his response. Initially, a ten-year grace period was provided to allow those who own bogs to secure an alternative fuel source but they have not been given assistance by the State to facilitate them in sourcing alternative fuels. In 1997 the cost of oil was $24 a barrel whereas now it is $140 a barrel. In light of that, will the Minister explain what assistance his Department has provided to facilitate turf cutters to secure alternative fuel sources?

Why can he not furnish information about the scientific evidence to Members? He gave a commitment to provide it to me on 1 July but I am still waiting on it and his Department cannot furnish it to me. Was the scientific study carried out on all 32 designated bogs due to cease turf cutting at the end of this year? If turf cutters are permitted to cut turf by hand or with a sleán, what is the scientific difference between doing that and using the hopper? The Minister of State, Deputy Finneran, will be well able to explain the implications of this, having footed plenty of turf in his time.

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