Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 June 2004
59 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the ongoing dispute regarding access to land and farmers’ rights, which is affecting tourism. [15343/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI established Comhairle na Tuaithe in February 2004 with the following aims: to ensure that all those with an interest and concern in the sustainable development and proper management of the recreational amenities of the countryside are fully consulted on their future management; to develop and update, as necessary, a national countryside recreation strategy; to ensure that all means necessary are used to resolve conflicts that arise in relation to access issues and responsible enjoyment of the countryside; to raise awareness of the benefits to and responsibilities of recreational use of the countryside and to carry out research and training on related issues; to ensure that adequate funding is made available to allow the organisation to achieve these aims and to examine the benefits and management of increased leisure use. A number of working groups are being established to progress individual components of these aims including the development of a countryside code, the examination of the issues surrounding access and work on the development of a countryside recreation strategy. These working groups will consider the impact on tourism in their deliberations. To date, the membership of Comhairle na Tuaithe consisting of representatives from the farming organisations, recreational users of the countryside and State bodies with an interest in the countryside have approached their work in spirit of co-operation. Against the background of these developments, I hope the matter referred to by the Deputy can be appropriately addressed. Approximately €40,000 has also been made available by my Department to employ a research and development officer and an appointment will be made shortly.
