That's among the findings of the Industrial and Waste Licence Enforcement Summary.
The Environmental Protection Agency carried out 29 inspections on peat extraction sites last year.
It's one of the highlights in its Industrial and Waste Licence Enforcement Summary for 2023.
The report also states Bord Na Móna submitted 14 rehabilitation plans under the Peatlands and Climate Action Scheme, covering 4,289 hectares.
It also found odour and noise complaints remained the most common last year accounting for 90% of all complaints.
EPA Programme Manager Patrick Byrne says the reduction is mainly due to increased enforcement by the agency.
The EPA says it's engaging with two midlands local authorities to progress enforcement action in relation to peat extraction operations.
It's working with Offaly and Westmeath County Councils on the issue, as well as three other local authorities around the country.
It also revealed its first successful District Court Prosecution for the extraction of peat without a licence.
EPA Programme Manager Patrick Byrne says the majority of inspections are carried out unannounced:
Ashling Murphy Murder "Wrongly Accused" Granted Bail Over Theft Charge
Young Boy And Woman Killed In Offaly House Fire
Laois Makeup Artist Warns Of Expired Suncream Dangers
Lynx and Wolves In Ireland Pose Minimal Threat - Offaly Biodiversity
€4.5m Going To Midlands Suckler Farmers
Westmeath Writer Nominated Posthumously For Award
Seven Midlands Hotels Nominated For Gold Medal Hotel Awards
Cabinet Approves Major Expansion Of Midlands Garda HQ And Prison
Memorial Day Honouring Ashling Murphy Takes Place In Offaly
Midlands Town Left Shocked After Death Of Young Woman
Concerns Highlighted On Drones Spotted Ahead Of Zelenskyy Visit
€6m Westmeath Lotto Jackpot Winner Comes Forward
Israel’s Participation Sparks Eurovision Withdrawals From Ireland And Others
Teachers Union Calls For More Permanent Posts Amid Recruitment Challenges
Offaly Garda To Receive Bronze Medal And Bravery Award
Laois TD Questions Effectiveness Of Utilities Commission In Regulating Uisce Éireann
€6m Lotto Jackpot Ticket Sold In Mullingar
Grinch Themed Late Late Toy Show Lights Up the Midlands
Strong Friday Winds Forecast
Laois Clinical Physiologist Highlights Importance Of Exercise