Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 26 Apr 1990

Vol. 397 No. 10

Written Answers. - County Kerry Golf Course Development.

Roger T. Garland

Ceist:

64 Mr. Garland asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the problems and difficulties associated with golf courses (details supplied) in County Kerry, which include interference with and rerouting of existing rights of way, inadequate consultations with the public using rights of way, the initiation of erosion particularly in sand dune systems, damage to areas of scientific interest and the introduction of club houses into areas where building would not normally be permitted; if he will outline his intentions to rectify these problems; if such developments should be brought under the normal planning process; if not, the regulations which should be brought into force to protect the areas affected; and the regulations which are used at present.

Minister for Finance (Mr. A. Reynolds)

My functions in this area are based on the management of Killarney National Park and the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1976, which provides that interference with any protected species or habitats is an offence.

To date there is no evidence to suggest that the developments in question have constituted an offence under the Act.

Any development which might adversely affect an ASI would be of concern. Consequently, an amendment to the Wildlife Act, 1976, which would provide a legal framework to dictate developments in these areas, is under consideration.

I have no objections to leasing State lands peripheral to Killarney National Park as part of a third golf course there. These lands had been let annually for grazing and do not form part of the core national park. I cannot give further details on these matters until negotiations with the club are more advanced.