The EPA is investigating large scale illegal peat extractions across Roscommon and Longford. A report from the Environmental Protection Agency revealed it is looking into cases of illegal operations over seven counties across the country. Large scale peat extraction can only take place if it is granted planning permission, while in some cases an EPA licence is also required. An EPA license is an Integrated Pollution Control licence, enabling the holder to extract peat in the course of business in an area exceeding 50 hectares. The regulator explained the type of illegal extractions vary, with peat used in horticulture, agriculture, and in the mushroom growing industry.
It has now confirmed it is investigating 38 cases of illegal operations over seven counties, including Roscommon and Longford. The EPA says the illegal extraction of peat is widespread in Ireland, having carried out 170 inspections between 2021 and 2024 and taken legal actions at District Court and High Court level against operations in areas greater than 50 hectares. It says these illegal operations are contributing to an export trade of 300,000 tonnes of peat annually, valued at almost €40 million. The Environmental Protection Agency is now directing local authorities to take appropriate enforcement actions against such operations within their jurisdiction.
