asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state whether rights-of-way have yet been established for the use of the public (1) from the Sallygap-Roundwood road to Lough Dan through the Oranmore and Browne estate, and (2) to the beaches at Brittas Bay, County Wicklow, and, if not, whether it is likely that these rights-of-way will be established in time for use of home and foreign tourists during the coming summer.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rights of Way.
The exercise of the functions conferred by the Tourist Traffic Act, 1952, in relation to the provision and improvement of means of access to places of scenic or other interest to the public is the responsibility of An Bord Fáilte.
I understand from An Bord Fáilte that as regards Lough Dan, the parties concerned have agreed in principle that access should be available. Access for pedestrians is available at present. Difficulties exist regarding car access owing to the unsuitability of the road. The board is not at present taking further action in the matter pending the development of certain plans of the E.S.B. which may affect the position.
As regards the beaches at Brittas Bay, I am informed that the board has been in consultation with the local authority and that action is in progress.