The End of an Era: Turf-Cutting

This isn't about Irish or booze, but in case you're interested....
THE END OF AN ERA (March 9, 2008)
http://www.independent.ie/national-news/the-end-of-an-era-1311613.html
The practice of cutting turf is under threat because in 1992 the EU adopted a Habitat Directive which passed into Irish legislation as the European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997.
It listed extensive habitats that must be protected, including large areas of raised and blanket bog land throughout Ireland.
The Irish Government got a 10-year derogation for landowners who cut turf for personal consumption but this runs out at the end of the 2008 turf-cutting season when it will become illegal to cut turf in designated bogs around the country.