Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 194: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on having his Department review the boundaries of the bogland currently included in special areas of conservation and national heritage areas as a measure to alleviate the distress caused to private individuals who have for generations cut small amounts of turf for their own use on the margins of these areas; and if he will engage with the representatives of these people in view of the crisis in price and supply of other fuels. [24157/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The boundaries of the Special Areas of Conservation were transmitted to the European Commission in 2004 and are not now open to review by my Department. Prior to this, extensive discussions were held with representative farming organisations. My Department operates a bog purchase scheme where turf-cutters are required to cease cutting in such designated areas.

Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 195: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason Ireland opted for 12% to 14% of land for inclusion in special areas of conservation and national heritage areas when only 1% was requested. [24158/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Some 14% of Ireland's land area is designated either as a Special Area of Conservation, Special Protection Area or Natural Heritage Area. I am not aware of the source or context of the 1% area referred to in the question.

Frank Feighan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 196: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the valuation compensation of circa €3000 per acre for purchase of special areas of conservation and national heritage areas by the State will be brought in line with proper market values in view of the fact that the price of forestry land is at least double that amount. [24160/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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There are no proposals to increase the rates paid under the present scheme.