Public Consultation on Draft National Peatlands Strategy, Draft National Raised Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Management Plan, and Review of Raised Bog Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs)
The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Mr. Jimmy Deenihan T.D., is inviting submissions from stakeholders, interested parties and the general public on the documents described below. The closing date for submissions is Friday, 18 April 2014.
Firstly, the draft National Peatlands Strategy, sets out a cross-governmental approach to managing peatlands including compliance with EU environmental law, climate change, forestry, flood control, energy, nature conservation, planning and agriculture. The strategy also sets out proposals for the development of a new regulatory regime for turf contractors.
Secondly, the draft National Raised Bog Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) Management Plan provides for the future restoration and management of the 53 raised bog SACs and how the needs of turf-cutters are to be addressed. Comments are also invited on the accompanying SEA Environmental Report and Natura Impact Statement.
Thirdly, comments are welcome on the Review of the Raised Bog Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs). The Government is now seeking the views of stakeholders, interested parties and the general public on these documents which are available to download at http://www.npws.ie/peatlandsturf-cutting/. These documents are available for public inspection at NPWS head office at 7 Ely Place, Dublin 2, and at NPWS regional offices, during office hours until Friday 18 April 2014.
Written submissions will be accepted up to 18 April 2014 and can be sent to:
Peatlands Policy Unit, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, 7 Ely Place, Dublin 2.
Or by email to: peatlandssubmissions@ahg.gov.ie
