Noteworthy analysis reveals cutting has frequently taken place at 30 protected sites over the past decade despite clear prohibitions since 2011.
Following a deep analysis of the NPWS data and dozens of State files on individual protected bogs, the latest article in Noteworthy’s PEAT SAKE series, reveals how:
- Peat-cutting continues to be a widespread issue across the raised bog network, with cutting frequently taking place in 30 protected sites since 2012
- No ministerial consents have been granted by the State to allow for peat extraction in any of the protected raised bog network sites
- NPWS records show that limited restoration work was undertaken until the late 2010s, with decades of peat cutting threatening the future prospects of various bogs
- There was a 12- to 18-year gap between sites being designated for protection and detailed conservation objectives being drawn up to ensure raised bogs are protected.
https://www.noteworthy.ie/peats-sake-pt3-sac-plots-5650149-Jan2022/