John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State mentioned Gowran. One of the other important sites in Kilkenny is Kells. A considerable amount of work was done there by the local community. It would be a great attraction if it were examined and the community or council encouraged to develop it. It is a fine example of a rural village but it also has fine walks around it. During the Covid pandemic, the likes of all of these sites, particularly Kilkenny Castle, turned out to be great areas for walking. Out of necessity, local people discovered their own historic sites and walkways during that time. With the new focus on walking and being in the outdoors, the likes of Kells, Gowran and Freshford should be looked at. The Department should focus on getting the county councils in those areas to respond to an overall plan and to aspire to be part of that plan by bringing forward their own plans. Encouragement is needed.