asked the Minister for Finance if the National Park Service will further identify its role in the total outdoor recreation spectrum and formulate such operating policies as will co-ordinate its unique resources with those of all other agencies of State, local government and the private sector.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Park Service.
29.
Mr. Kenny
The National Parks and Monuments Branch of my Office has set itself the objective of identifying and taking into its care, on behalf of the nation, representative areas of great natural beauty and/or scientific values and areas which offer exceptional opportunities for out-door recreation for all our people. In managing such properties, it is the policy of the branch to develop greater public awareness of their special inspirational, educative and recreational values while at the same time maintaining those values unimpaired as far as possible for future generations.
Consistent with those objectives the branch is prepared to co-ordinate its activities with those of other appropriate agencies as opportunities offer.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary say if any progress has been made in regard to the land acquired last year in Donegal for a national park?
Mr. Kenny
The acquisition is not yet finalised. Probably it will be by the middle of next year.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary like to say if, in identifying his role, he would find it possible to assume responsibility for Fota Island in Cork?
Mr. Kenny
As the Deputy may know, there was a meeting between representatives of the people, the corporation, the county council, the Office of Public Works and the Minister for Finance only last week. The matter is still under consideration.
(Interruptions.)
Next question, please, No. 30.