Climate & Environment

Solid fuel rules to be enforced after turf concerns settled

New plans to ban smoky fuels on a phased basis will initially be enforced through ‘supportive compliance’ measures

Those with turbary rights to cut turf can continue to do so for their own use and retain the ability to gift or sell turf. Picture: Shutterstock

New solid fuel regulations will initially be enforced through “supportive compliance” as local authorities prepare to deploy additional inspectors across the country this autumn.

Last week, the government finalised controversial plans to ban smoky fuels on a phased basis, which were held up due to political concerns in Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael over the impact on turf, which many people in rural Ireland use for heating.

The controversy was settled after Eamon Ryan, the ...