James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

I am relieved the Minister has offered an enhanced compensation package to the bog owners and acknowledge his rational and fair-minded approach to what has been a 20-year communications breakdown between the State and turf cutters. However, I greatly desire an assurance that the Minister and the Government are singing from the same hymn sheet on this announcement. I do not wish to see a scenario in which the Minister announces a measure to defuse rising anger only for the European Union or officials subsequently to rain on his parade to the detriment of turf cutters. While I do not suggest this will happen, there has been a long history of disconnection between the State and turf cutters. Consequently, it is important to be assured that the full resolution of the State is behind this announcement.

I have lobbied through the many stages of the turf cutters' battle for fair treatment. In the constituency of Longford-Westmeath, many bogs have been affected and there is great fear. This constitutes a huge blow to the farming community in my constituency, which has some of the finest bogs in the country. I have seen the anger and frustration among turf cutters in Longford-Westmeath and there should be a great easing of tension following this announcement of what will amount to a total of €23,000 for effected bog owners. Moreover, I have every confidence the Minister also will see the overall picture encompassing the heritage and traditional skills. I acknowledge the presence in the Gallery of huge numbers of people from my constituency of Longford-Westmeath.

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