Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 November 2019
142. Deputy Pat Casey asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the engagement between his Department, local residents and Wicklow County Council regarding ongoing land management access and maintenance of the Glen of Imaal firing range; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49108/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Glen of Imaal is an operational training facility for the Defence Forces.
The civilian Lands Staff employed by my Department at that location deal mainly with the herding and removal of sheep from the ranges prior to exercises and when necessary assist with mountain rescues.
Throughout the year advertisements are placed in the main national and local Wicklow newspapers which give a general warning around military firing ranges and advising that red flags indicate live firing.
I have been advised by my officials that the Department has not been approached in the recent past by Wicklow County Council or by local residents in regard to the lands there.
