Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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144. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will investigate if Bord na Móna is in compliance with the shareholder letter of expectation issued to the company that provides guidance to Bord na Móna and its board of directors with respect to the Government's current objectives in view of serious concerns raised with me by farmers regarding rewetting, the preservation of bog land and the destruction of biodiversity and wildlife in the construction of Bord na Móna windfarms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38534/23]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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Bord na Móna (BnM) is obliged to comply with climate, biodiversity, water and other environmental policies, objectives and standards set out in the Programme for Government, Government strategy and policy documents, legislation and the Shareholder Letter of Expectations.

While Bord na Móna is not exempt from compliance with local and national planning and environmental laws and regulation in the conduct of its activities, whether construction of windfarms, battery storage or in the rewetting of bogs, it is an independent commercial semi state company. Compliance with the law is a matter for the Board and Management of the company and one in which I as Minister have no function.

Compliance with the Shareholders letter of expectations is asserted through the company's annual return with regard to the Code of Practice for State bodies.

Bord na Móna, in line with its vision, has transitioned to a Climate Solutions company, working towards the Government net zero target. The Company is clear that it is working with, and for, nature, having changed how it manages natural assets, and created climate solutions that seek to renew energy, recycle waste, and neutralise carbon emissions. It continues its leading role in peatlands remediation and rehabilitation, including through the Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme, with appropriate public engagement and consultation with local communities to ensure the continuing public support for this important project along with peatlands rehabilitation works on behalf of the National Parks and Wildlife Service.