Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if any moneys are available for the compensation of persons who have been or will be affected by the restrictions imposed by the Habitats Directive on Ireland’s 53 raised bogs Special Areas of Conservation. [40078/12]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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The Government has put in place a compensation scheme for those affected by the cessation of turf cutting on raised bog special areas of conservation. This cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme now comprises a payment of €1,500 per year, index linked, for 15 years or, where feasible, relocation of turf cutters to non-designated bogs where they can continue to cut turf. Those wishing to relocate can avail of the financial payment or the delivery of 15 tonnes of cut turf per annum while relocation sites are identified and prepared. The costs of acquiring and preparing relocation sites will be met by the State. An additional once-off payment of €500 for qualifying turf cutters will be provided where legal agreements are signed with me, as Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.