Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 December 2013
18. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure the potential of rural recreation is achieved, as a creator of wealth and jobs in rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51862/13]
View answerThe implementation of the National Countryside Recreation Strategy is overseen by Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council) which is chaired by my Department, meets on average 3 to 4 times a year, and continuously supports and oversees the implementation of the Strategy and its associated schemes and activities. The main initiatives which are being progressed through Comhairle na Tuaithe include the Pilot Mountain Access Scheme, a proposed National Indemnity Scheme and the Walks Scheme . The renewal of Walks Scheme contracts in respect of 14 trails involving almost 900 participants has been completed by the Rural Recreation Section of my Department. It is my intention that the remaining trails on the scheme will be renewed as they fall due and additional participants brought on where possible to further enhance these iconic routes.
The current expansion in the development of greenways and cycle lanes nationally is having a positive effect towards stimulating growth in the services and accommodation sector in many rural areas and my Department has approved LEADER funding for a number of such developments through the Local Development Companies. Approximately €600,000 in additional funding was secured for the Rural Recreation budget in 2013. This funding has been allocated and is assisting in maintaining the network of National Waymarked Ways and other priority walking routes of regional or national significance. I am fully aware of the importance of rural recreation to the Irish economy and I and my Department are committed to continuing to make progress including with the oversight of Comhairle na Tuaithe.
