Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)

From the Department finds its way into the most rural areas of the country, which is extremely helpful. Nowadays people are so conscious of their health and providing these walks is so important. They do not have to be state-of-the-art but the more we can provide, the better. I note that the Department is going to provide funding for six outdoor recreation officer positions on a pilot basis. Who will decide where they are? Will there be an opportunity for local authorities to make submissions to the Department? Who will decide that? Where is Comhairle na Tuaithe based and what is its authority?

In terms of the implementation of the strategy, it is important that the Department is at the apex, as our guests have said. Tremendous work is being done on the ground by the local authorities and local development companies. They are working away quietly.

It is a great Department. Any politician would want to be in it because there is good news nearly every day. Although other Departments may have an input, it is important that one Department have overall responsibility.