National Parks.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 November 2009

Tuesday, 17 November 2009

Ceisteanna (372)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

418 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the historical, cultural and recreational significance of Donadea Forest Park, Donadea, County Kildare in the ownership of Coillte Teo; if he has received communication from local community support groups in the context of a comprehensive development plan to acquire the property for development as a national park similar to a number of other such projects here and which would involve the restoration of Donadea Castle and ancillary buildings, having particular regard to the potential benefit, locally and nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41901/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Brendan Smith)

Donadea Forest Park is owned and managed by Coillte Teoranta, which was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988. Day-to-day operational matters, such as the management of parks, are the responsibility of the company. Coillte carried out extensive upgrading and improvements of trails, signage, car parks and interpretation at Donadea Forest Park under the Forest Recreation Infrastructure Upgrade Programme (National Development Plan 2000-2006). Coillte is also currently examining the possibility of developing a family cycle trail at Donadea Forest Park but there are no other plans at present to do further development of this particular park. As regards communications in relation to the acquisition of the property for development as a national park, as mentioned by the Deputy, I wish to advise that I have not received any such communication.