They're holding a protest outside Dáil Eireann against the ban on turf cutting on raised bogs from half 7 this evening – as TDs debate the issue inside the Dáil chamber.
The demonstration comes after Minister Jimmy Deenihan last night announced an improved compensation package of 1,500 a year for 15 years for those affected by EU legislation banning turf cutting on
almost 60 special areas of conservation.
These include Redwood and Carrig bogs in North Tipp, where hundreds of local people have cut turf for generations.
PRO of the Turfcutters and Contractors Association – Independent TD Luke Ming Flanagan – says the improved compensation offer changes nothing:
