Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2012
449. Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the review of all issues relating to the ongoing management of lakes in Muckross Park County Kerry and in particular its boating activities has been completed; the present position regarding the issue of mooring permits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52917/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is necessary to limit the scale of boating activity on the lakes in Killarney National Park so as to balance recreational use with the conservation imperative of the flora and fauna of the lakes and surrounding areas, and also taking account of obligations under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. My Department has commenced a review of all issues relating to the ongoing management of the lakes in the Park, including all boating activities, with a view to developing a long-term sustainable strategy for the lakes as an integral part of the Park. It is expected that the review will be completed in the early part of next year.
Private boats on the lakes in the Park are regulated by way of mooring discs. Under a scheme introduced in 1991, mooring discs were issued to all boat owners having a recognised traditional mooring on the lakes, subject to an overall limit on the number of discs issued.
My Department receives numerous requests for mooring spaces but, unfortunately, the demand far exceeds the number of spaces available. My Department does not permit the placing of boats on the lakes on a daily or casual basis, as boats and engines coming from outside the Park carry the risk of spreading invasive alien species such as zebra mussels and various pond weeds. To facilitate others who would wish to use the lakes, persons applying for discs are placed on a waiting list and, as discs become available, they are allocated to those on the waiting list. In addition, a lottery is held annually to allow 20 additional people use the lakes for a year.
