Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein)

It is important for the Minister to come here today to clarify what exactly he will do to resolve this serious issue. We want the turf cutters' rights upheld so that they can continue to cut turf in their own areas, as they have done traditionally. They are not interested in moving to different bogs, nor do they want compensation. They want to continue cutting turf in their home areas, as they have done traditionally. They need to be able to do so now that their incomes have diminished and the cost of living is increasing. It is appalling the way in which the State has dealt with this issue. We seem to have plenty of gardaí to send to peaceful protests and on to bogs, but when it comes to looking after older people in their homes or having community gardaí on the streets, they do not seem to be available. It is disgraceful.