A local Government Minister had warned the Taoiseach that a proposed turf ban could cause damage across the midlands according to a newly revealed document.
A letter obtained from Journalist Ken Foxe through Freedom of Information show Fianna Fail Minister and Longford Westmeath TD Robert Troy warned Michael Martin the ban would be a significant issue for people in Longford, Westmeath and offaly.
The Green Party plans for the wind down of the turf cutting industry received major backlash from across the country, when it came to light in April.
In his letter to the Taoiseach, Minister Troy said that common sense must prevail when it comes to the domestic harvesting of peat.
He stated that in a time of rising energy prices, homeowners and residents must be given the flexibility to deal with the situation at hand.
The plans was openly criticised by both opposition, independent and back bench government TDs leading to a roll back on the original proposals.
Documents also show a range of Fianna Fail representatives along with members of the public contacted the Taoiseach over their opposition to the proposals.
