188. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the measures his Department is considering to succeed the cessation of turf cutting compensation schemes as the payment period concludes for many applicants; if a replacement support is being considered; if so, the details of any such support or supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46881/26]

The Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme was established following engagement with stakeholders in 2011 for active domestic turf cutters arising from the restrictions on turf cutting on 53 raised bog special areas of conservation (SAC) and was extended in 2014 to include 36 raised bog natural heritage areas (NHA).

This scheme has compensated those impacted by restrictions on turf-cutting on protected sites, and over its 15-year term has helped to ensure the conservation of important peatland sites of unique ecological value.

My Department is currently concluding its review of options for my consideration and I expect to review those options in due course.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service offers other schemes to support the conservation of these sites and local community groups, including:

• The Protected Raised Bog Restoration Incentive Scheme, which is a once off, area based financial incentive and voluntary land purchase scheme which enables the conservation of protected peatlands. The scheme is open to applications from eligible property right holders who wish to have their lands included as part of a restoration scheme or where access is required for restoration measures within protected raised bogs.

• The Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme aims to encourage local communities, organisations, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to actively contribute to the conservation and restoration of Natura 2000 sites and peatland areas and funds a diverse range of initiatives with community benefit.

Other supports, such as those operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland and the Department of Social Protection, are available to those with older homes, inefficient heating systems and those most at risk of fuel poverty.