Eugene Murphy (Roscommon-Galway, Fianna Fail)
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1603. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if a proposal by a person (details supplied) to be included in the turf cutting compensation scheme will be considered in respect of a parcel of bogland from their holdings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18430/19]

Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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The voluntary bog purchase scheme, which was introduced in 1999, was established to facilitate the purchase of bog land/turbary rights at agreed rates from domestic turf cutters on raised bog special areas of conservation and natural heritage areas. This scheme was closed to new applicants in 2010.

Following an examination of the location of the bog plot, referred to in the Deputy's Question, I am advised that the plot, which the individual wishes to sell, is not within a site that has been selected for conservation as a special area of conservation or natural heritage area. In addition, the plot would not be a suitable site for the relocation of turf cutters to non-designated bogs.

Therefore, my Department would not be in a position to purchase the plot under the voluntary bog purchase scheme or otherwise.