Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

I acknowledge the work the Minister has done in this regard and the work done by Mr. Justice Quirke in the consultative process. It is fair to say that for successful conservation, we need a positive spirit of partnership. That is why there is grave concern when major stakeholders such as the TCCA walk away from the talks. On 14 March the Minister raised everyone's expectations and gave people on all sides reasons for hope. It was great headline-grabbing stuff, but to date, it has not been followed through.

What action did the Government take to preserve the priority habitats within its control before beginning its pursuit of small domestic turf-cutters? Has it received support from the EU Commission in respect of formulating a national plan? Why are Department of Defence personnel ferrying staff from the National Parks and Wildlife Service about the place in order that they might monitor the activities of domestic turf-cutters? What is the cost of this to the Department of Defence, which is closing down Army barracks in the interests of cutting costs? When will it be realistically possible for the Minister to bring this matter to a successful conclusion? Does he have any hope with regard to whether it will be possible to bring the TCCA back on board? A number of people signed up for compensation but they have been waiting a damn long time for it. This is creating a disincentive for others who may be considering signing up for it.

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