Call for turf cutting compensation

THE price of oil, which has recently reached $110 a barrel, has boosted the value of traditional turf cutting in many parts of Ireland.

MEP Marian Harkin made the claim in the European Parliament when she called for full compensation for people whose turf cutting rights are being restricted by EU legislation.

Irish turf-cutters and bog owners are being asked to cease cutting turf for personal use, she said.