Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A vote has been called in the House. I suggest that, as we have had two and a half hours of very constructive engagement, we end the discussion at this point. The delegates have had a flavour of the level of interest, engagement and knowledge around the table among members. There is genuine interest in this topic. Dr. Bleasdale has suggested there is a need to develop a practical plan to deal with commonage issues to find a lasting solution. Dialogue is the only way a practical solution will be achieved and economics is a key element of it. Over-grazing occurred because of the coupled system. The making of headage payments meant that it was better economically to have more sheep. Likewise, economics is playing a part in having the opposite effect, having regard to vegetation management plans which encompass burning and other actions such as the cutting back of rhododendrons. We need to develop the bones of a plan to establish principles. Collective responsibility will not be the solution in cases in which one party plays truant. We need to establish how we can deal with the issue of dormancy and with those who will not co-operate, while ensuring each commonage is in good condition. It will boil down to carrying out a series of laborious and extensive individual plans and concentration on the fewer than 20% of commonages which are not in good condition, either as a result of overgrazing or undergrazing. It will be a case of starting with these commonages and leaving the ones in good condition until last.

I appreciate that Deputies Éamon Ó Cuív and Seán Kyne both have a great interest in this matter. Deputy Seán Kyne is in attendance. Where I come from there are issues to do with a vegetation management plan. In other areas in counties Donegal and Kerry and Connemara there are large national parks and significant interaction between the State and individual grazers. It may be possible to establish a sub-committee to engage with both the Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service as part of a consultation process. The committee has something to offer the process. Other stakeholders will also be attending the committee.

I again thank the delegates for their attendance. I also thank the members who have stuck with this issue. I hope everyone has had an opportunity to express his or her views.