23 Galway turfcutters accommodated at alternative sites

Galway Bay fm newsroom – 23 turfcutters who own raised Galway bogs have been accommodated at other sites for this year's turf cutting season. Cutting is restricted in these areas due to an EU Habitats Directive. The group who own boglands at Carrownagappul and Curraghlehanagh have been provided with sites at the Islands bog and Killasolan bog. The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has also provided seven turfcutters from Monivea bog with an option to relocate. A spokesperson for the Department says a relocation site has also been assessed as suitable for turfcutters from Ardraigue. Efforts are now ongoing to ascertain the level of interest in moving to this site. Cutting is restricted at 12 Galway raised bog complexes. The legislation imposes restrictions on 53 bogs nationwide, which are designated Special Areas of Conservation.