The Minister for Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht has said that people cutting turf on 53 protected raised bogs this weekend will be breaking the law.
Jimmy Deenihan said he was appealing to people not to respond to a call by the Turf Cutters and Contractors Association to begin cutting again.
On RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, Mr Deenihan was asked what action would be taken against those who continue to cut turf.
"If they're breaking the law...in time court cases will be taken, people will be brought to court,” he said.
Asked if fines would be imposed, Mr Deenihan said: "We will have to apply the law, otherwise Europe will impose major fines on Ireland - €25,000 a day.
“If we're not seen to be implementing the directive, then we will be taken to court."
Mr Deenihan said national parks and wildlife rangers will be out this weekend reminding people of their obligations under the law.
The TCCA has withdrawn from discussions on the issue.
