asked the Minister for Lands if he will consider the possibility of opening up the State forests in the region of Dublin and Wicklow as an amenity for people wishing to go for walks in the country or for trekking on horseback.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Opening of State Forests.
21.
My Department is already committed to the gradual opening up of State forest areas, where suitable conditions exist, for recreational use by the public. Proposals have been formulated for some areas in the Dublin and Wicklow region and, subject to agreement with other bodies concerned, progress may be expected this year.
So far as trekking on horseback is concerned, my Department has always been prepared to consider applications for permission to use forest roads for the purpose.
Will facilities be available during the coming summer in these Dublin and Wicklow State forests?
Yes, facilities are generally granted if the request is made. There has been the odd case of some people taking French leave and ignoring the Department.
I am talking about pedestrians. They are not open to pedestrians at the moment.
In a number of areas they are. For example, there is the forest area in County Dublin popularly known as the Hell Fire Club area. The position has been examined in conjunction with Bord Fáilte. There are discussions going on with the county council. The public are admitted there on foot. Horseback provides some difficulties where the roads are not suitable. We must bear in mind young forests where vegetation has not completely been cut down and there is the danger of fire. However, generally speaking, it is the policy of the Department to open up these forests to the public in so far as they can do so.
Thanks.