GALWAY TURFCUTTERS ADVISED TO SEEK SPECIAL PERMISSION FOR RAISED BOGS

Date Published: 01-May-2012

Galway turf cutters may be able to apply for permission to cut on raised bogs on an "individual" basis.

It follows claims by Independent TD Denis Naughten who says the little publicised option is contained under the original statutory instrument.

12 bog complexes across County Galway are impaced by the ban due to an EU directive which prevents cutting in special areas of conservation.

Deputy Denis Naughten says Minister Deenihan has confirmed that "individuals" can apply for permission to continue cutting.

Meanwhile, the Galway Alliance Against War has raised concerns about the military’s role in the turf dispute.

The group says the defence forces role in monitoring cutting in designated areas of North East Galway is a crazy situation.