Group to examine phasing out of turf cutting on designated bogs

A WORKING group set up by Environment Minister John Gormley is to examine issues relating to the phasing out of domestic turf cutting on designated raised bogs in special areas of conservation and natural heritage areas over the coming years.

Mr Gormley said the clear scientific advice is that continued turf cutting on protected raised bogs is incompatible with their preservation.

“Therefore the Government has no option but to bring about a complete cessation of turf cutting on these sites, as signalled in 1999,” he said.