Turf cutters defy regulation by cutting in Monivea bog

Galway Bay fm newsroom – Turfcutters have defied Department and EU regulations today (Sunday) by cutting turf in Monivea Bog which was designated a Special Area of Conservation. A spokesperson for the turfcutters says they have been cutting turf in the bog since 5 am today. Gardai visited the bog earlier in the morning and again before midday but the turfcutting has continued. The turfcutter's spokesperson said 11 machines have been operating in the Monivea bog and while 76 banks of turf were cut there last year it is intended to cut a greater number of banks of turf this season.