Turf cutters welcome exclusion of domestic users from smoky fuel ban

People who cut turf from their own bog bank will not be affected by a ban on the burning of smoky fuels.

The Environment Minister has announced that a smoky coal ban will come into effect nationwide in a years time.

This will include tighter rules for the selling and distribution of solid fuels like wet wood.

Eamon Ryan says in order to accommodate those with rights to harvest sod peat, no ban on its burning will be introduced.

However, the Department is suggesting that "a regulatory regime to reduce its harm in more urbanized areas is under examination".

Chairperson of the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association, Roscommon Galway TD Michael Fitzmaurice says further clarification will be needed on that.