Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 March 2004
163 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made to date by the consultation group established to consider the issue of access to waymarked ways; if he has received the consultation group’s report; when he expects that the report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7705/04]
View answer184 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress he has made on his proposal to establish a body to be known as Chomhairle na Tuaithe. [7728/04]
View answer186 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding which has been allocated to Comhairle na tuithe; when it will begin its work in implementing the recommendations of the report of the consultation group on access to waymarked ways; the way in which he envisages that these recommendations will take effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7651/04]
View answerI propose to take Question Nos. 163, 184 and 186 together.
In my reply to Questions Nos. 141, 157 and 219 on 4 February I outlined my response to the report of the consultation group on access to waymarked ways including my decision to reconvene the consultation group as Comhairle na Tuaithe. The report of the consultation group has been published on my Department's website.
The inaugural meeting of Comhairle na Tuaithe was held on 26 February. I attended that meeting and outlined my views on the issues involved and assured the members that they would have the fullest possible support frommy Department in implementing the recommendations of the report. I have provided for funding for the employment of a research-development officer to assist in the work of Comhairle na Tuaithe. Advertisements will be placed shortly for a research-development officer who will work to deliver a prioritised work plan for Comhairle na Tuaithe in accordance with the recommendations of the report.
