Public access to local forests to be retained – Naughten

In Mid-Roscommon, North-Roscommon by Denis Naughten

Local TD Denis Naughten has been informed by Minister Fergus O’Dowd that the existing access enjoyed by the public to Coillte owned forestry will be retained into the future.

Denis Naughten raised the matter on the floor of the Dáil this week following concerns being raised that access to local forestry could be restricted in the future.

In response, Minister Fergus O’Dowd said: “I can state with clarity, that there is no question of not having access to existing and potential recreational amenities of the country.”

The Minister went on to say that access to such recreational amenities, fisheries and other attractions drives the tourism agenda, and this will form part of any future plans.

Responding to the Minister’s comments Denis Naughten said that he welcomed the clarity provided on this important access issue, which not only impacts on the local community but also on the longer term plans for the development of tourism assets.