Clare Daly
Question:23. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to strengthen the resources of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. [27073/18]
View answerThursday, 21 June 2018
Questions (23)
Written answers
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department manages a property portfolio in respect of National Parks and Reserves of approximately 87,000 hectares. These important biodiversity areas are located all around the country.
In terms of human resources, staffing levels across my Department are kept under regular review in line with emerging business needs and Government policy on public sector pay and staffing as advised by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Of my Department’s total staff, I understand that some 330 work in the area of natural heritage through the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). In addition, my Department takes on in the region of 70 seasonal staff during the year to assist the NPWS. Conservation Rangers are deployed through a regional structure and assignments are determined in light of Departmental business needs and priorities.
Under "Investing in our Culture, Language and Heritage, 2018 - 2027” capital investment of some €50 m has been earmarked for the National Parks and Nature Reserves. This investment ensures long term protection of the National Parks and Reserves and my Department is delighted to have the opportunity for investment and implementation of measures to protect our habitats, landscapes and wildlife.
This funding envelope will allow us to develop a major investment programme for our National Parks, improving visitor facilities and information, improve signage, as well as developing trails, maintain existing trails and walkways and invest in new routes. We will provide better access to nature and protect the natural heritage in the parks. This investment will ensure that we can seek alternative access to parks and lessen the impact of rising visitor numbers and balance conservation with this increase in tourism. It means we will be able to showcase our beautiful habitats and improve visitor experiences simultaneously.
“Experiencing the Wild Heart of Ireland”- a Tourism Interpretative Masterplan for the National Parks is presently being finalised. It is intended that this report will guide the phased development of these enhanced visitor facilities and improved visitor experiences based on research into international best practice.
I’m aware that an important area of concern for the Deputy is that of compliance with the Wildlife Acts and addressing wildlife crime. I want to acknowledge the Deputy’s assistance to my officials in bringing some egregious matters to their attention. I recall too that I undertook to look to address the resources in this area when I could and I can assure the Deputy that this remains a priority for me.
Question No. 24 answered orally.