Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 February 2017
329. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs her plans to purchase lands (details supplied); if her attention has been drawn to the importance of these lands to hikers and to tourism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7005/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra336. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if her Department has initiated contact with the owners of an estate (details supplied) regarding its forthcoming sale and the future status of the 5,000 acre site that is currently enjoyed as a public amenity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7255/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 329 and 336 together.
Given the scarce resources available for capital investment in our National Parks and Nature Reserves, I am mindful of the need to focus on the core responsibilities relating to the management of the existing Parks and Reserves lands. It is for that reason, my Department could only consider the matter referred by the Deputies if the price fell within a certain range or in the context of a donation or bequest. In this context my Department has initiated contact with the owners.
