Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will specify the kinds of equipment it is permitted to use when cutting turf; if it remains the case that while use of the sausage machine is illegal, it is permitted to use the hopper machine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45731/08]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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A small proportion of Ireland's peatland is designated for conservation purposes under the Habitats Directive or the Wildlife Acts. Landowners and holders of turbary rights on bogs within Special Areas of Conservation or Natural Heritage Areas can currently cut turf for their own domestic use. Since 1999, the use of "sausage" machines has not been permitted in these areas. However, "hoppers", or other hand-held machines, have been permitted. There are fewer restrictions on undesignated bogs. Large-scale peat extraction works may require planning permission, with an associated environmental impact assessment, under the planning code.