Eamon Ryan is targeting low hanging fruit when it comes to the proposed turf cutting ban, according to a local TD.
Sligo/Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin says that stopping the public from cutting turf during an energy crisis is shortsighted.
The Greens say that the measure is needed to reduce the air pollution associated with burning peat.
The independent deputy has criticised the green party for getting the message behind the climate initiative badly wrong.
After significant public backlash, the Government clarified last week that the proposals would seek to ban industrial large scale turf operations, while allowing community cutting.
Speaking to the Joe Finnegan Show today, Deputy Harkin says that the Environment Minister should instead concentrate on Ireland's coal burning power stations:
