Cllr Ken Glynn has welcomed the decision by the Minister for the Environment to lift the ban on turf cutting in bogs until the end of the year.
Minister Gormley announced the turnaround last Friday. The ban on turf cutting in bogs designated as special areas of conservation had been due to come into effect at the end of 2008 to meet Ireland’s obligations to protect endangered habitats under EU law.
"Following repeated representations to the Department of the Environment regarding the cutting of bogs, I welcome the fact that this year’s cut is to remain as is,” said Cllr Glynn.
“I truly believe that the ability to maintain ourselves through traditional methods, for example using and availing of natural resources, is paramount particularly in today’s economic climate.
“Whilst I recognise the need to maintain many of these bogs for the sake of the environment and the reduction of CO2 in our environment, I will be continuing to call on Government to avoid targetting those who make a living from this resource and also those whose primary source of fuel comes from peat."
Some 32 bogs were affected by the ban, which is expected to extend to 139 bogs by 2014.
