Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 588: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the area known as Ballinagare Bog, County Roscommon and the continuation of its use for domestic turf cutting up to 2014 at least; the derogation which is available to other such bogs; if, in view of the change in land prices he will consider a review of the compensation offered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23891/07]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Cutting turf on designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), including Ballinagare Bog (SAC 000592), is strictly limited in order to protect this internationally important type of habitat. A derogation was agreed in 1999 to allow turf cutting for domestic use only on less sensitive areas of bogs designated as SACs for a period of up to ten years — that is, until the end of 2008.

A generous compensation package is available for anybody who agrees to end turf cutting on designated bogs. My Department will purchase freehold on designated raised bogs at €3,500 for the first acre or part thereof and €3,000 for each subsequent acre. Alternatively, the Department will purchase turbary rights on designated bogs at €2,975 for the first acre or part thereof and €2,550 for each subsequent acre. There are no plans to increase the level of compensation on offer.