In all some 589 applications for compensation were received in relation to bogs located wholey or in part in County Westmeath, according to the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
Out of theses, 378 were applying for financial compensation while 211 were applying for a relocation. Total payments to affected turf cutters in County Westmeath now amount to €580,500.
Potential relocation bogs have been identified for all five raised bog SACs located wholly or partly in County Westmeath where relocation of turf cutters is required
It has also been reported that 34 deliveries of turf to homes in the county have been made.
According to Minister Jimmy Deenihan progress is being made in the payment of compensation, and his department is assessing relocation bogs, for turf cutters across the county.
The compensation has been paid under the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme.
