Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

208. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if there are plans to create a public amenity at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13495/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Rahanine bog is part of Drumman Bog located in the Derrygreenagh group of bogs in Westmeath and Offaly. Currently the bog is not included in the Enhanced Decommissioning Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme (EDRRS).

Bord na Móna has indicated that is it considering developing some of the lands for renewable energy projects. Such renewable energy projects will play an important role in the decarbonisation of our economy and other sectors through electrification of transport, heating, and industry.

The Bord na Móna renewable energy team have been engaging with the local community group in the context of renewable projects on the site and amenity development. Amenity facilities, including elements proposed in the community initiative, can be an integral part of any renewable project. The value of this can be experienced at the nearby Mount Lucas Wind farm project bog which has 10km of public amenity facilities for cycling, walking, jogging and running, in addition to an outdoor gym along the route.

Bord na Móna Renewable Energy team are completing the detailed plans for the projects, and I am assured that they will continue to engage with the local community.