Claire Kerrane (Roscommon-Galway, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It is the case then that a proposal has been made for this 100 m buffer zone around where turbary activity is taking place and turf is being cut on common areas. Many farmers on commonage areas may not be cutting turf but they will be impacted if such a buffer zone actually comes to pass. The Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association, INHFA, said it had discussions with the Department last year and an understanding was reached that allowed for the areas where the turf is being cut to be separated. The Minister referred to that in relation to it being scored separately. This really needs to be held because it will have an impact on the overall score and an impact on farmers' payments when in some cases they have nothing to do with the turf cutting on the commonage area to begin with. It is important we get clarity on this as soon as possible. The proposal has been put to the Minister and has been looked at. Will the Minister be clear very quickly about the decision made on that? The INHFA had its discussion and came away with the understanding that there will not be a negative impact on farmers in commonage areas when it comes to the ACRES scoring and payments. How long will it take the Minister to look at this proposal and confirm what the situation will be?

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