The IFA has met with Bord na Móna to raise concerns around a rewetting programme which will see 200,000ha of bog restored over the next five years.

The delegation which was led by association president Tim Cullinan, highlighted the potential impact of the programme on neighbouring farmland with Bord na Móna chief executive Tom Donnellan and his team.

Cullinan said: “There is a genuine concern about how the programme will affect local farmers. Bord na Móna assured IFA that there would be no risk to neighbouring lands.

“It was agreed that we would collectively establish a working group to ensure constant dialogue on these and other projects as they are rolled out.”

Genuine concerns

The IFA president was joined at the meeting by his deputy, Brian Rushe; national environment chair, Paul O’Brien; and rural development chair, Michael Biggins.

The meeting also focused on Bord na Móna roll out of renewable energy projects and initiatives.

Cullinan continued: “It is important that there is a full and ongoing consultation with farmers. While there are genuine concerns about some of the projects, there may also be opportunities.”

The delegation also raised the impact on horticulture farmers, as a result of Bord na Móna’s exit from producing peat.