Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 208: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if bog-holders (details supplied) in County Galway will be allowed to cut their domestic turf supply in 2008 in view of the fact that the derogation given ten years earlier expires in 2008; if he has reviewed the situation and domestic turf cutting can be cut on those raised bogs without damaging such bogs; if his attention has been drawn to the anxiety that turf cutters have regarding the cessation of their fuel supplies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27833/07]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I assume that the Question refers to Carrownagappul Bog, of which Gunnode is also a part. This bog is a candidate Special Area of Conservation. The derogation permitting a continuation of turf cutting for domestic purposes in SACs is due to expire in 2008.

A recent review of the state of our bogs has revealed continuing damage due to domestic turf cutting. As a consequence, no extension to the derogation, which was intended to allow domestic turf cutters a transitional 10 year period to move from turf cutting to an alternative fuel source, can be permitted. My Department operates a generous purchase scheme for bog or turbary owners who are affected by the restrictions.