Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

While I accept that, the issue is about adequate notice for residents in the area.

I believe there is a strong will to achieve something positive with the Curragh amenity. I have spoken to many of the stakeholders involved who have great enthusiasm for developing the plains and making them a strong natural feature. I acknowledge the help of Department of Defence officials regarding the issues I raise. If the Curragh were designated as an NHA, it would be afforded legal protection by underpinning the existing Curragh of Kildare Acts and its current designation as a recorded monument under the National Monuments Act. The addition of an interpretive centre and visitor points would greatly enhance the tourism potential. Allocated parking areas would also help to reduce the random uncontrolled traffic on the plains.

I firmly believe the Curragh Plains should be designated as a national park under the natural heritage area guidelines as they meet all the criteria. Has the forum ever discussed how this could be achieved or if the archaic legislation governing the plains could be revised?

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