Michael Mullins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister to the House and thank him for his comprehensive contribution. We all accept that the Minister, on taking up this portfolio and being handed a file that had been left unattended on a desk for a decade, was given a hospital pass. He has done a good job in attempting to address this very difficult and sensitive issue.

I welcome that Senators are unanimous in stating that it is important our environment is protected for future generations and that we adhere to directives and legislation. Having said that, I admit there are difficulties in many parts of the country, including my own county of Galway. I regret that it has not to date been possible to resolve the difficulties that have arisen there. I urge the TCCA to return to the table. At the end of the day, this problem can only be resolved through dialogue and engagement. It is what everybody in this House wants to happen.

The Minister will be aware of the particular difficulties that arise in terms of the lack of options for relocation for people in the Clonmoylan-Barroughter area of south Galway. This issue needs to be addressed urgently. Ultimately, concessions will have to obtained from Europe to allow for a limited amount of turf cutting in this area. I cannot see how the issue can be otherwise resolved. Not everybody is interested in taking compensation. I hope there is sufficient bog in other parts of the country that can be traded for concessions in the Clonmoylan-Barroughter area.

I ask that the Minister expedite engagement and discussion with those who up to now have not come to the table and appear not to be interested in finding an immediate solution to this problem. As a country, we cannot afford huge fines from Europe. However, we must respect that some people want to provide fuel for their homes and we must do all we can to provide that opportunity for them, particularly in areas where this matter cannot be easily resolved. I commend the Minister on his work thus far on this matter and ask that he expedite engagement with the stakeholders so that this ongoing issue can be brought to a satisfactory conclusion.