Invite to the people of Laois to learn how to help save fen gems

The future of Laois wetlands is set to be the focus of an upcoming meeting on a restoratation scheme that is funded under the multi-million euro Just Transition scheme.

Local people are invited to a meeting in Portlaosie organised by the Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration project which has a budget of €12 million over three years and is said to be the largest environmental initiative of its type in the country.

They say the Portlaoise information session entitled 'Fens - The Hidden Treasure of the Midlands' will highlight the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration, including improved water quality and carbon storage. The organisers say they will also explain some financial incentives available for restoration with opportunities for questions and discussion.

The event, which is one of a series of meetings through to March 4, is open to landowners, farmers, community groups, local organisations and anyone with an interest in wetlands and the future of the Midlands.

Restoration plans are being developed for 36 fen sites across the Just Transition region, led by a multi-disciplinary team from Arup consultants. The sites being discussed at the information evening on Monday, February 23 at the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise are:

• Annaghmore Lough Fen (Offaly) PNHA
• Clonaslee Eskers & Derry Bog
• Mannin
• Ballytynan
• Kilnaseer
• Hobartstown West
• Ballynafagh Lake

Tóchar told the Leinster Exprss that the proposed restoration measures will only take place in full consultation and in agreement with the landowners concerned. They add that any restoration measures are 100% funded by Tóchar and landowners will benefit from incentive payments for facilitating the restoration work.

Research, carried out by Red C on behalf of Tóchar, was published to raise awareness of the meetings and restoration. Tóchar said it explores public behaviours, attitudes and awareness about wetlands. Tóchar said it shows that almost half of Irish adults visit wetlands at least once a year, with recreation such as walking, birdwatching and spending time in nature being the main reason for visiting.

Tóchar said a clear majority of respondents agree that wetlands are important for protecting biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, storing carbon and preserving Ireland’s cultural heritage. It said agreement with these statements remains consistently high compared with 2024. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

A photo taken in Abbeyleix bog that was saved from peat harvesting and restored by community volunteers.

Tóchar say fens are a rare and distinctive type of peatland that are fed by groundwater rather than rainfall. Their waterlogged conditions allow peat to form slowly, supporting specialised plant and animal species while also helping to filter water and contribute to more resilient local environments. Tóchar say many fen sites across the Midlands have been damaged over time, and restoration work is now taking place to help these important wetlands recover.

Tóchar Project Manager Shirley Clerkin said the evenings are about building understanding and connection.

“The public information evenings allow us to bring insights into a local setting, to explain what fen restoration involves and to have open, practical conversations with the communities closest to these sites. Restoring wetlands is not just about ecology. It’s about working with people, listening to local perspectives and ensuring these landscapes continue to support nature, climate resilience and community wellbeing into the future,” she said.

The Tóchar initiative is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme. The project is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

READ ALSO: ‘Seismic’ chain of Laois events that saved Abbeyleix bog recalled

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD said he was not suprised by the survey results. 

"Wetlands are magical places, with huge benefits for people and for nature. The public understand this – especially the people of the Midlands for whom wetlands are deeply interconnected with culture, tradition and local identity. The Tóchar Project is doing fantastic work through engagement and collaboration with communities, and these public information evenings are an ideal way for people to find out about what’s happening, why, and how to get involved.

"Shared stewardship is at the heart of successful nature restoration in Ireland and I’d encourage anybody with an interest to get down to one of the events,” he said.

You can also register for any of the information sessions by phoning 01 5393160 or online HERE

Registration commences each evening at 7:15pm with the session beginning at 7:30pm and ending at 8.30pm.