Vol. 491 No. 1
29 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the strategy he or his Department is taking to ensure access for walkers and hill climbers on open country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11294/98]
The various issues affecting access to the countryside come under the remit of a number of Government Departments and agencies. My colleague, the Minister for the Environment and Local Government began a consultative process last January on the establishment of a National Environment Partnership Forum. Arising from the consultation process, which included written submissions and a consultation conference which was held in March, the Minister will bring proposals to Government shortly in relation to the forum's structure, terms of reference and working arrangements. The Minister has assured me that he will bring the issue of access for walkers and hill climbers on open country to the attention of the forum, when established.
