Paul Connaughton Snr (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 358: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department will go ahead with the proposed sale of the All Saints Bog and Esker special area of conservation, County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13603/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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I understand the particular site to which the Question refers is part of Kilnaglinny bog, an undesignated bog adjacent to All Saints Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The land in question is owned by my Department and is currently being used for turf-extraction by a number of turf-cutters who moved from the SAC. These cutters have expressed an interest in purchasing the land.

I am considering proposals concerning the arrangements that will be necessary to implement the cessation of remaining turf-cutting on raised bog SACs, including All Saints Bog, as required by the Habitats Directive and our own Habitats Regulations.

The future use and ownership of this bog is being considered as a part of the general arrangements for those affected by the cessation. My Department will be in touch with the turf-cutters in question in due course.