Members of the Irish Turf Cutters and Contractors Association who met in Ballinasloe yesterday afternoon have vowed they will not be bullied into stopping the cutting of turf on EU habitat-designated areas.
Speaking ahead of the meeting chairman Michael Fitzsimmons said that members plan to make a compromised proposal to the Peatlands Council when they meet.
It is expected that this will include provision for a liner system that will protect the ecosystem of the bogs where turf is still being cut.
