As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has been working to develop a National Indemnity Scheme to indemnify private land owners, particularly in Mountain Access Scheme areas, with regard to the use of their lands for recreational purposes.
This is a complex issue and the legal rights of landowners must be respected, while trying to facilitate access to their lands for recreational users on a permissive basis. However, the introduction of such a scheme is a key priority for my Department to support the continued provision of access to the countryside for recreational users.
My Department has been advised that an indemnity scheme such as the one envisaged will require legislative provision. In this context, my officials have sought advice from the Attorney General's Office on the proposed scope, roll-out, and the legal processes required to give effect to such a scheme. Further contact between officials is likely to take place over the coming weeks on the matter.
It is envisaged that this scheme, once introduced, will come into effect in upland areas initially on a phased basis.