I would like to preface my question to the Leader by mentioning that I come from Laoighis-Offaly which is the heart of the midlands and turf-cutting country. My family has cut turf for generations. I do not take lightly how seriously families and others take the important issues of land rights, access to land and turbary rights. Nonetheless, I was horrified to see a wanton act of destruction over the weekend. It showed a deliberate, blatant and flagrant disregard of the law of the country. Constructive efforts had been made to reach a compromise and a solution to curb and prohibit the cutting of turf on a few raised bogs throughout the country. It is even more disturbing that the person leading the charge in these unique special areas of conservation - he is bragging and boasting about it - is a Member of the Dáil. He seems to think breaking the law is a laughing matter.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

I do. I would like him to arrange for the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, to come to the House. With the Peatlands Council and responsible turf cutters, the Minister has done everything in his power to reach an amicable solution to this problem. It is important to mention that some €4 million has already been paid to over 2,600 turf cutters who have embraced and accepted the scheme in a responsible manner without forgoing their land rights and access to their lands. Under the compensation package, they receive €1,500 per annum for 15 years. Ordinary families who go out to cut turf were not responsible for the blitzkrieg on the bogs of the west that we saw at the weekend.

Is the Senator looking for a debate on the issue?

Heavy machinery was used to desecrate a special area of conservation. It was a disgrace that a Deputy led the charge.

The Senator can raise these points during the debate.

It is important that the Minister come to the House to set out his plans to curb this kind of reckless activity.