Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 March 2015
839. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the funding available through his Department for the maintenance of walking trails; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11066/15]
View answerMy Department continues to administer the Walks Scheme, which was launched in 2008 on the recommendation of Comhairle na Tuaithe (The Countryside Council). This Scheme provides for landholders to be key participants in the provision of high quality walking trails, by contracting them to undertake maintenance work on the trails in line with agreed work plans. The Walks Scheme is currently operating on 39 trails supported by 1,896 landowners and is being managed by 16 Local Development Companies around the country.
In 2014, funding in the region of €1.8m was provided to participants on the Walks Scheme based on maintenance works being carried out as specified in agreed Walks Scheme work plans.
My Department ran a Trail Maintenance Scheme in 2013 and again in 2014, where funding was provided to maintain sections of National Way Marked Ways and other trails of Regional and National significance. Subject to the availability of funding, I envisage that a similar scheme may be administered by my Department later this year.
