The European Commission is referring Ireland to the ECJ, claiming enforcement action is not being taken over peat cutting.
In a statement it says the country has failed to implement the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive.
Although it acknowledges Ireland has taken steps to halt peat cutting, it says it’s aware there is sill significant activity which is not subject to planning permission.
The Commission claims enforcement action at local level is not taking place and has therefore referred Ireland to the European Court of Justice.