The Government has been accused of setting fire to Ireland’s natural heritage after it was confirmed that 46 areas of bogs are to be de-designated as Natural Heritage Areas.

The Green Party claim this will remove protections against the destruction of the bogs and will allow turf cutting to take place.

Speaking in the Dáil, Green Party Deputy Leader Catherine Martin TD, said: “I am appalled that the Minister responsible for the protection and promotion of our heritage is allowing, under her watch, the destruction of an irreplaceable part of our heritage…