Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for his reply although I am not happy with it. There are two issues. The priority of protection and of complying with the EU habitats directive is a separate issue in my opinion. That is why I highlighted the issues of over-development and desecration of our peatlands by developers. Sadly, the Minister of State did not address those issues which are the fundamental reasons our bogs are being damaged and the habitats along with them.

While the Minister of State said that only a small number of bogs are affected, 32 bogs in a small country is a considerable number. Since 1999, further bogs have been listed so this means essentially that all bogs are affected and according to what the Minister of State said, eventually all bogs will be included. The people will not accept this and that is the bottom line. I am very disappointed to hear the Minister of State say that the derogation will not be extended. I believe this is wrong. The issue will not go away as people feel very strongly about it.