Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, the Curragh Plains Representative Forum was established to enable key stakeholders of the Curragh Plains to meet and contribute to the ongoing management, protection and future development of the plains. Membership of the forum, which is chaired by the Department of Defence, includes representatives from the Defence Forces, an Garda Síochána, the Curragh Racecourse, Curragh race horse trainers and Kildare County Council. The forum will also consider representations from other representative groups of stakeholders and interested parties as required.

To date, there have been three meetings of the forum, the most recent of which was held on 27 October. Issues discussed have included illegal encampments, illegal parking, dumping, over grazing and the ongoing management and maintenance of the Curragh Plains. At the most recent meeting, a number of measures were agreed by the members of the forum to assist in addressing these issues. I am well aware of the many issues which need to be addressed in the context of the day-to-day management and use of the Curragh Plains. Consequently, I am supportive and appreciative of the work being undertaken by the forum. I am confident that in working together, the members of the forum will provide the resolve and expertise to greatly assist in the identification and implementation of solutions to the problems which need to be addressed.

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