Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2017
618. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the significant challenges in the conservation of the Curragh, County Kildare; the measures his Department is undertaking to help preserve the Curragh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20386/17]
View answerAs you are aware the Curragh Forum was established to enable key stakeholders of the Curragh Plains to meet and contribute to the ongoing management, protection and future development of the Plains. Membership of the Forum, which is chaired by the Department of Defence, includes representatives from the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána, Curragh Racecourse, Curragh Racehorse Trainers and Kildare County Council. The Forum also considers inputs from other representative groups of stakeholders and interested parties as required.
To date there have been three meetings of the Forum. Issues discussed have included illegal encampments, illegal parking, dumping, over grazing and the ongoing management, maintenance and protection of the Curragh Plains. A number of actions were agreed by the members of the Forum to assist in addressing these issues.
In line with agreed actions, a review of the Curragh Bye-Laws and the Curragh of Kildare Act is progressing with a view to identifying what amendments can possibly be made to provide greater powers to deal with the issues of illegal encampments, illegal dumping, illegal parking and the other key issues identified by the Forum.
In addition, my officials have recently introduced revised procedures regarding the branding and documenting of sheep grazing on the Curragh Plains. These changes will assist in having greater control of the numbers of sheep grazing. Actions to address over grazing will also be progressed in 2017.
Plans are being prepared to facilitate progress of a number of other agreed actions including signage and the development of facilities on the Curragh environs. There are currently no dates agreed for further meetings but my officials are available to meet with members of the Forum to discuss key issues as they arise.
I am well aware of the many issues which need to be addressed in the context of the day to day management and use of the Curragh Plains and consequently am supportive and appreciative of the work being undertaken by the Forum. I am confident that in working together, the members of the Forum will provide the resolve and expertise to greatly assist in the identification and implementation of solutions to the problems which need to be addressed.
