Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 204: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedure involved in applying for approval for peat extraction following the enactment of the Planning and Development Regulations S.I. No. 364 of 2005; the type of development which is required to go through the planning process; his plans to issue guidelines to local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6951/07]

Dick Roche (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Planning and Development Regulations 2005, generally exempt peat extraction below a threshold of 10 hectares from the requirement for planning permission. However, there are exceptions where the peat extraction would have significant effects on the environment. In these limited cases, planning permission must be applied for, accompanied by an environmental impact statement. If a person proposing to carry out peat extraction requires guidance as to whether the extraction in question would have significant effects on the environment they should consult the appropriate planning authority. If desired, a person may seek a declaration under section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 from the planning authority on the question of whether a development is, or is not, exempted development.

In July 2005, my Department issued Circular PD3/2005 to local authorities detailing the amendments contained in 2005 Regulations. I have no proposals to issue further guidelines.