EU backs conservation plan for raised bog areas

A national plan for raised bog areas of special conservation has received EU backing, according to ministers.

After talks in Brussels, Environment Minister Phil Hogan said a “real step forward” had been made in bringing “final resolution” to difficulties in protecting Ireland’s raised bog special conservation areas after talks with EU commissioner Janez Potocnik.

He pledged that the drafting of a national plan would allow “solutions” for turf-cutters in the 53 raised bog sites.

Limited turf-cutting may be allowed in some areas where there is no alternative.

Mr Hogan said: “The commission has agreed to assist and provide support to Ireland in preparing this plan, within the framework of the habitats directive.

“The Government agreed to maintain close and intensive engagement with the commission on the preparation of this plan, with further meetings to take place soon.

“In order for the plan to be a success, and to ensure that we have the space to concentrate on those bogs where finding alternative solutions to continued cutting is particularly difficult, we would urge all those with an interest in the plan’s success to ensure that cutting does not take place this year. We appreciate that this is difficult for those for whom turf-cutting is part of their tradition and heritage.”

Ministers continued to ask turf-cutters not to engage in such activities while the plan is being finalised.

Those who wish to continue cutting in the long term can take an interim payment of €1,500 per annum or a delivery of 15 tonnes of free turf per annum until relocation sites are put in place, the Government said.

About 1,500 people have so far applied for compensation.