Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We had International Bog Day on 26 July. As someone born and reared on the Bog of Allen, I am proud to highlight our wonderful bogs. Our attitude to our bogs has changed in the recent decades. They are now seen as areas with beautiful plants, lovely wildlife and landscape and as greatly important in countering climate change.In the past our bogs were seen as sources of fuel and employment. In Kildare, since Bord na Móna was set up in 1946, we have had thousands of people employed by the company in areas like Kilberry, Rathangan, Allenwood and Carbury. Much-needed jobs were provided and the local economy very much depended on Bord na Móna jobs.

Over the past number of decades, that dependence has reduced significantly and we currently have fewer than 400 people working for Bord na Móna. It is very important we do everything we can to support the existing workers who will lose their jobs because of the path Bord na Móna has had to take as a result of our climate change responsibilities. It is very important we have the opportunity to discuss that with the Minister. I know a number of other Senators are also from counties affected by that so I ask the Deputy Leader to call the Minister in to discuss the issue.

We have the just transition fund, which is very important, along with commitments to retrofitting to help support these areas and workers. One particular application for just transition funding I want to highlight is for the Umeras bog between Rathangan and Monasterevin in County Kildare. It covers 600 acres and it could be a very valuable amenity, providing much-needed employment in the Rathangan-Monasterevin area. It will blend very well with the proposed blueway, the Ballykelly distillery and the greenway. I welcome the funding of €96,000 for the Allenwood section, and all of this will work very well together.