Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I wish to share time with Deputies Stanley and Colreavy.

I welcome the opportunity to speak on this motion. I commend the work of the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association.

As outlined by my party colleagues in their contributions last evening, Sinn Féin supports the Technical Group motion and will vote accordingly tonight. It is fair, however, to acknowledge that the Government's amendment comes a considerable distance to meet the demands of the TCCA. The commitment to a comprehensive process of engagement is to be welcomed. Looking at all the information, it really does appear, if the political will is there, that a reasonable and sensible solution is possible which will see turf cutters, the Government and the EU alike contented. One way of demonstrating such political will would be to withdraw the Government amendment and to allow all party support for the Technical Group motion tonight.

That said, the practical implications of the proposed national plan for SAC raised bogs remain to be seen. Mar a deir an seanfhocal, "Is in ithe na putóige atá an chruthú." Whereas the Minister states he is asking "that the communities affected by the designations sacrifice, or change, part of their cultural heritage", there was talk of manoeuvrability and flexibility. This flexibility will be absolutely essential. The success of this process will be measured by the ability to reach agreement in all instances, but particularly in the 14 most difficult cases.

I am very familiar with the position on the Moneybegs and Clareisland bogs, and those who work them. Relocation is not an option. Compensation is not an option. The TCCA has proposed co-existence. The turf cutters in that area are willing to provide alternatives.

There is considerable solidarity between the individual turf cutters. They are determined not to see those difficult cases isolated and exposed. Domestic turf cutters, like so many of us, know their history. Evictions, killing people with kindness or a strategy of divide and conquer will not succeed. The Government should be aware of this as it proceeds. I repeat my call on the Minister to withdraw the Government amendment and allow this House respond with one voice on this issue.

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