Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 May 2024
671. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an update on the Cappahoosh mountain trail in Connemara, which received funding through the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme; the status of the project; when it is expected to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20658/24]
View answerThe Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) is funded under Our Rural Future. The scheme provides funding for the development and enhancement of outdoor recreational infrastructure such as walking trails, cycleways and blue ways throughout rural Ireland. Since the launch of the scheme in 2016, funding of over €113 million has supported more than 1,700 projects across the country.
Under Measure 3 of the 2020 scheme, funding of €500,000 was approved for the Connemara Trails and Eurovelo Route project. The proposed works included the upgrading of an existing 10km walking trail at Cappahoosh through Coillte lands, replacement of two bridges along the route of the Western Way walking trail, upgrade of an existing mountain bike trail at Derroura Oughterard, and signage on the Eurovelo cycling route from the Mayo border at Leenane to the Clare border at Kinvara.
Last July, it was brought to the attention of my Department that the National Parks and Wildlife Service had concerns regarding the works carried out within the Connemara Bogs Complex Special Area of Conservation in Booheeshal in Connemara, Co Galway. Based on the circumstances outlined and in accordance with the funding agreement, the applicant was advised to cease works on site and the funding offer has been withdrawn until investigation of the matter has been concluded and the issues resolved. There are also additional concerns in respect of a forestry road at Cappaghoosh/Boheeshal, Recess, Co. Galway constructed as part of the project which are also under investigation at this time.
Officials in my Department are in ongoing consultation with the local authority in respect of these matters.
