Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

No, but the matter was discussed on Committee Stage. It was flagged as a possibility.

Senator Ó Céidigh referred to the long and proud tradition in many rural areas where, to be blunt about it, turf and fishing in the sea were all that people had. It was a way of life and it sustained many families. I accept the point made by the Senator - Senator Higgins mentioned this too - that it is something we could take to the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Deputy Regina Doherty.

Senators Ó Céidigh, Paddy Burke and Mulherin referred to the de-designation of certain areas. We all know the story about major road infrastructure and minor road infrastructure if a person is impacted by a designated area. Although powers will be given to the Minister, this will not be a blanket policy. A process must be undergone for any de-designation. I understand the Senators have indicated that they may look at amendments in this area.

Senator Higgins referred to raised bogs and to the designation of 25 new areas as being positive. These are mainly State-owned lands. One of the things we often hear is that the State is attacking the little guy while ignoring its own responsibilities. We are now looking at designating and restoring State lands. Since they are larger areas, they will have more of an impact on the total network. The total network of raised bogs will increase rather than reduce. There will be a reconfiguration along those lines.

The question of blanket bogs was discussed on Committee Stage. Senator O'Sullivan is right about climate change and blanket bogs. Clearly bogs, have an important role to play in climate change initiatives. That is why the reconfiguration is adding to the total network rather than reducing it. I would welcome additional designations of particular State-owned land. It is easier and the State has control of these large areas. If additional areas of raised bog that are State-owned could be designated then I would welcome it. Senator O'Sullivan mentioned local, national and European newspapers. Again, I will look at the matter with officials in respect of the requirements.

Senator Mulherin mentioned issues regarding roads. There are ongoing problems on the improvement of roads. Roads are not improved for the fun of it but predominately to improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents and of lives being lost. A balance must be struck between protecting the environment and the necessity to improve driving conditions, making roads safer and saving lives. It is complex but I am conscious of the importance of it.

I thank Senators for their support in the areas they are supporting while acknowledging the concerns that many have raised. I commend the Bill to the House.