EU conservation law on turf ‘favours Bord na Móna over small farmers’

SMALL farmers are being unfairly prevented from cutting turf on their land while Bord na Móna is free to harvest Irish bogs without hindrance, according to Sean Kelly MEP.

The Fine Gael South Ireland MEP said that EU conservation laws are being unfairly applied. He has questioned the logic of the regulations, which sanction Bord na Móna’s commercial operations while prohibiting the long-standing traditional activities of small turf-cutters.

“Turf-cutting in Ireland is part and parcel of our cultural identity,” Mr Kelly said. “Irish heritage is something we are trying to promote and should be supported.

“It is being halted at over 50 Irish bogs due to EU conservation laws but surely our own traditions deserve conservation also? Bord na Móna is still pursuing its commercial work unimpeded and turning a profit. Why should ordinary people be penalised and go without proper compensation when this semi-state company can continue to make a profit from our natural resources?” he asked.

“I propose a levy be considered for Bord na Móna in order to ensure those people impacted by the EU ban are properly compensated.

Meanwhile, the IFA has also recently criticised both the low level of compensation for farmers who have ceased to cut bog and the lack of any provision of any alternative approved sites for those farmers dependent on turf for fuel and heating.

Farmers at a recent Peatlands Council meeting in Athlone pointed out that — other than the Clara bog in Co Offaly — relocation has not been offered thus far to any bog user affected by the new regulations. Turf-cutters are being left in a very uncertain situation as cutting has ceased without any alternative sites being offered, they said.