GALWAY TD URGES TURF CUTTERS TO COMPLY WITH THE LAW

Date Published: 05-Apr-2012

Galway East TD Paul Connaughton is urging turf-cutters with raised bogs in areas of special conservation to refrain from cutting this year.

He's insisting progress IS being made in Europe to allow concessions for turf-cutters on certain bogs.

Ministers Phil Hogan and Jimmy Deenihan, and Conor Skehan, chairman of the Peatlands Council, met with the Environment Commissioner in Brussels on Tuesday, and presented a three-year transitional plan for bogs, prepared by the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association, or TCCA.

Deputy Connaughton says the convoy asked for flexibility in light of the large volume of work being carried out, and that relocation is not possible in some cases.

Meanwhile, Michael Fitzmaurice of the TCCA told Galway Talks that discussions in Europe are not working effectively.

He says he will be out on his bog cutting turf this year, even if it means being arrrested.

Deputy Connaughton says he understands people's frustrations, but is asking that people stay engaged with the process in Europe, and not cut turf.