Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 November 2018
85. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of engagement between his Department and Kildare County Council regarding the challenges and potential of the Curragh Plains in the context of conservation and management of the plains and their future usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48398/18]
View answer88. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the actions he has taken following the publication of a vision document prepared for Kildare County Council on the future potential of the Curragh Plains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48397/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 88 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department met with Kildare County Council in September to discuss both the challenges facing the Department in the management of the Curragh Plains and their vision paper relating to the future of the Plains.
I am advised that one of the key outcomes from the meeting was the need to develop a joint approach where possible.
Following on from this meeting, an application supported by the Department of Defence was made by Kildare County Council for funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. I am advised that the outcome of this application is awaited.
The proposal submitted to my colleague, Mr. Michael Ring T.D., Minister for Rural and Community Development, seeks funding to appoint a multidisciplinary consultancy team in order to examine the current and future challenges arising for the Curragh Plains, in the context of the conservation and management of the Plains, and to explore the potential for branding and development of the Plains as a high value visitor and cultural amenity attraction.
With regard to the ongoing conservation and management of the Curragh Plains, the recruitment by my Department’s Property Management Branch of additional Curragh Plains land management staff to support the work of the Curragh Maor is expected to be completed shortly. These additional resources will share in the task of overseeing activities on the ground including, but not limited to, litter, sheep branding, patrolling, monitoring users of lands, inspection of property boundaries, illegal encampments and engagement with the public.
Finally, the Deputy may wish to note that the upcoming Curragh Plains environmental maintenance tender competition is due to go to tender early in the new year.
