John Whelan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I would like to preface my question to the Leader by mentioning that I come from Laoighis-Offaly which is the heart of the midlands and turf-cutting country. My family has cut turf for generations. I do not take lightly how seriously families and others take the important issues of land rights, access to land and turbary rights. Nonetheless, I was horrified to see a wanton act of destruction over the weekend. It showed a deliberate, blatant and flagrant disregard of the law of the country. Constructive efforts had been made to reach a compromise and a solution to curb and prohibit the cutting of turf on a few raised bogs throughout the country. It is even more disturbing that the person leading the charge in these unique special areas of conservation - he is bragging and boasting about it - is a Member of the Dáil. He seems to think breaking the law is a laughing matter.