Here is a selection of photographs taken in April and May which is the begining of the traditional turfcutting season, it is regarded as a cheap source of fuel but the real cost comes from the sheer amount of physical effort required to cut it, and that is only the start.
I know there is a good deal of nostalgic romanticism surrounding many aspects of Irish life in the past which tends to veil some of the harsh reality, but it does make wonderful subject matter, and has done over the years for many Irish artists.
Peter surveying the family's handy work.
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Working in pairs they keep a steady rhythm going.
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A very welcome break for the Boyle family.
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It's better when one cuts and one throws.
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some banks are three cuts deep
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Methods used to get the turf home can vary.
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View over the Bog Towards Dunlewey, Co.Donegal.
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Keeping a nice steady pace pays off.
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Mount Errigal blanketed in snow Co.Donegal.
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Corrie showing me how they foot the turf to dry.
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Charlie taking his turn with the spade
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Going at it alone.
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Peter surveying the family's handy work.
Working in pairs they keep a steady rhythm going.
A very welcome break for the Boyle family.
It's better when one cuts and one throws.
some banks are three cuts deep
Methods used to get the turf home can vary.
View over the Bog Towards Dunlewey, Co.Donegal.
Keeping a nice steady pace pays off.
Mount Errigal blanketed in snow Co.Donegal.
Corrie showing me how they foot the turf to dry.
Charlie taking his turn with the spade
Going at it alone.