Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

The referendum is a different issue. As I explained previously to Deputy Troy, this issue has been around for some time. We proposed that 53 bogs should be made special areas of conservation. This amounts to approximately 2% of the total raised bog in the country. We transposed this into Irish law and we gave a clear commitment to Europe that we would preserve these sites. When I got responsibility for this issue, there was no renegotiation or wiggle room, as Deputy Tóibín has described it. I was given the challenge of implementing the law. As I have explained, we have made a good deal of progress during the past year. I engaged with the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association, TCCA, and I hope they come back and renew the engagement they had previously. They brought some good proposals I have implemented. I hope the discussions continue.

Those affected have the option this year of getting 15 tonnes of turf, a substantial amount, or €2,000. This would enable them to buy oil or fuel to ensure they will have heat for the winter. A generous compensation package is available and we are doing our best to secure relocation. The process of examining the national plan and the difficult bogs will start shortly. I hope at the end of the year we will come up with solutions, but this is a difficult issue that will require co-operation from everyone. I appeal to everyone, especially those in the House, to co-operate. Some Deputies from all sides of the House, including from Deputy Tóibín's party, have been helpful in this respect and open to solutions. I accept this has been the case on all sides of the House. This is something we must try to resolve together and as a country. While I am in this position I will try to be all-inclusive with regard to finding that solution.

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