Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

Last year, The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government established an interdepartmental working group on cessation of turf cutting in designated areas. This is examining all the implications of cessation, including the question of replacement fuel sources. The working group invited and received submissions from interested groups and individuals. It also met representative groups concerned with turf cutting and with groups concerned with protection of the bogs.

The working group is currently finalising its report, including recommendations for managing the cessation. The Minister expects to receive the report shortly and having considered the recommendations, will make an early decision on necessary measures. He will be in touch with representative groups and individuals as soon as possible thereafter, to advise them of any arrangements that are to be put in place.

The Minister appreciates that this is an issue of concern to several Deputies, particularly in regard to the effects any cessation might have on those who rely on their bog plots on designated sites as a source of fuel. This is a central consideration of the interdepartmental group and will be fully considered in its advice to the Minister. Radon Gas Levels.

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