Podcasts

Should burning turf be banned to help improve air quality?

The Government is to ask the public if it wants to ban the burning of all smoky fuels, including turf, peat, wood and coal. This decision comes as they put a nationwide ban on smoky coal only on the back burner, as international suppliers claim peat and wood release similar amounts of pollutant particles into the air. The consultation process will be welcomed by health advocates, but will be seen as an attack on rural tradition by some.  Michael Fitzmaurice is an Independent TD for Roscommon Galway, and chairperson of the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association, he explained why he says domestic peat and turf cutters shouldn't be targeted.  see more