Michael Murphy (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I thank Mr. O'Connor and all of the participants. It has been a robust, candid and very necessary discussion. I apologise to members, the stakeholders and the witnesses who appeared earlier for the time management issues. This will not be the last discussion on the matter. While greenways hold enormous promise, it is clear that the process by which they are delivered must be trusted, transparent and fair. The evidence presented today shows that communication and engagement are at the heart of the progress but also at the heart of the conflict.

The committee will carefully reflect on the balance between voluntary participation and serious statutory powers. It will also reflect on how consultation can move beyond formality to genuine dialogue and how oversight mechanisms can ensure fairness to communities and the taxpayer. We will consider the code of best practice and whether it is sufficient to protect property rights, rural livelihoods, mental health, an issue I am very conscious of, and whether reform is needed.

Greenways should be a pathway of connection. They should not be about division. I will engage with the members, but I suggest we plan to engage with all sides, including local authorities and other stakeholders to ensure that we find the right balance in the code of practice between national ambition and local respect. It is very important that they co-exist. I thank everybody for their attendance, including all of the witnesses, members and the support staff as well.