Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004
90 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the latest action he has taken with colleagues in Government to support the work of Comhairle na Tuaithe; if progress has been made on the development of a national countryside recreation strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27976/04]
View answer118 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures he has taken or intends to take to encourage and protect access to the countryside on recognised walking routes. [28017/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 118 together.
When I established Comhairle na Tuaithe in February 2004, I identified several specific aims and objectives for this group, including the development of a national countryside recreation strategy, and the identification of appropriate mechanisms for resolving issues of access to and responsible enjoyment of the countryside, including access to recognised walking routes. The work of Comhairle na Tuaithe is supported by funding I made available from the rural development fund, including support for the appointment of a research-development officer.
Comhairle na Tuaithe has established working groups to address specific required outputs to achieve its work programme. These groups are working on the examination of the issues surrounding access to the countryside; the development of a national countryside recreation strategy; and the development of a countryside code. Comhairle na Tuaithe has arranged a national conference to be held in November to promote and develop its work including the areas specifically outlined above. This event will serve as an opportunity to progress the development of a countryside recreation strategy. I will pursue with my colleagues in Government action, which may be necessary, arising out of the results of the ongoing processes outlined.
