A motion to stop the upcoming ban on selling turf in Ireland is set to be brought forward in the Dáil next week.

The ban is due to come into effect from this September and would hit rural communities with no other heating options.

Sinn Féin representative Claire Kerrane TD announced the party's motion today, 22 April, as a response to the cost of living crisis across the country.

"Turf has been one of the only forms of heating not to see prices spiral in recent months," said Kerrane. "The Government's proposed plan punishes communities who rely on turf, instead of introducing measures to support communities in transitioning away from this form of heating in a way that is fair and sustainable.

"This proposed ban on the sale of turf is unfair, unworkable and must not go ahead. Our motion would end this unfair ban and ensure rural communities are treated fairly. I am calling on all TDs to back our motion next week."

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Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture, Matt Carthy TD, added: "The turf ban is the wrong measure at the wrong time and will only harm ordinary families. Climate action and public health measures are vitally important and it is crucial that the government puts in place workable solutions that can bring communities along, not alienate and punish people.

"While we recognise that it is not possible for the government to fully protect all households from every price increase, the measures announced by government to date do not go anywhere near enough in supporting families and workers, particularly in rural areas, at this difficult time.

"The timing and introduction of this turf ban could not be worse, considering the extent of the cost of living, fuel and energy crisis. Some government TDs have created confusion on this issue by giving mixed messages on whether this ban will go ahead as planned in September. The government cannot talk out of both sides of its mouth on this. Rural communities need clarity and this motion will give them that clarity.

"The planned ban on selling turf is yet another sign of how out of touch this government is and how they are failing rural communities. I am urging all TDs to back our motion next week and stand up for rural communities."