Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 361: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding turf-cutting; and the proposals that exist with regard to turf-cutting. [13697/10]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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The derogation allowing a continuation of turf cutting on 32 Raised Bog Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) that were notified for designation in 1999 has now expired. A further 23 raised bog SACs were notified for designation in 2002 and 75 Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) were designated in 2004. The derogation on these sites will expire at the end of 2011 and 2013 respectively.

The Working Group on the Cessation of Turf Cutting in Designated Areas is nearing completion of its deliberations and I expect to receive its report very shortly. I will conclude my consideration of the report and any recommendations it contains as rapidly as possible, and will then be in touch with affected individuals and representative groups in regard to the position.