Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

On 29 January the Minister told me that the public notice would be issued shortly. We have gone through another turf cutting season and that has not happened. People do not know what additional bogs are to be designated. I agree with the Minister that this issue is not of his making. Members of this House sat on their hands for 15 years prior to the Minister taking office. However, not being up-front and transparent with people is undermining any credibility that there is. Also, is it not the case that staff have abandoned their role in the relocation process because of the lack of support and resources within the Department to ensure they can source alternative bogs? If we are to build confidence between communities, this must be a priority and the resources of the Department must be put in place, 17 years on, to try to facilitate relocation.

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