Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Connaughton for sharing time. Will the Minister of State furnish us with the scientific evidence relating to the bogs selected under this scheme? This has not been provided yet, despite our attempts to obtain it on numerous occasions. That would help the turf cutters make a case for an extension of the scheme. They were led to believe there could be an extension to the ten-year rule but the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government will not comment on that.

What are the rules? Information is seriously lacking. The Department thinks that sending out a lump of paper in the post a few years ago was sufficient to inform people about the rules and the legalities of cutting turf. Turf cutters are afraid because they are not sure what they can do. Will the Minister of State clarify whether they need permission to cut turf? This issue was discussed by the Joint Committee on the Environment, Heritage and Local Government because of worries that the Minister intends to ram this change through and force people off the bogs. Some of these people have spent their lives working on bogs and they have the scars to show for it. They want a role in their local bogs but no management plans are in place and no discussion has taken place on how they can be involved in, for example, tourism projects. Will it be possible for them to cut turf without using machines?

Let us show consideration for families, generations of whom have worked on the bogs, and not introduce a blanket ban at the end of the derogation. This is the reality for some people and this work is part of their lives and culture. It is not as straightforward as shoving them off the bogs and the Minister telling the House this affects only 10% of all bogs in the State. That is not an answer. This ban is very serious for those working the 10% of bogs affected. They are not being well looked after and it is assumed they can stop and that will be it. That is not good enough.

If people are expected to give up their right to cut turf, with others possibly benefiting through swapping arrangements and so on, the current compensation must be examined. It is totally and utterly ridiculous, as it does not reflect the current cost of energy.

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