Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Countryside Council has representatives of landowners and a number of organisations, including farming organisations. It will meet again next week. I expect that it will assist me on the question of legislation in whatever way is necessary. My first priority is the landowners. They must be protected.

The Deputy was right to raise the example of people letting out their Labradors or other dogs, but there is separate legislation to deal with that situation. Such people should have respect for those who are allowing them to go through their lands. My priority is to look after the landowners. They are the people who own the land and have the rights. They are the ones whom I want to protect.

I want to open the walkways.

I want to open the trails. That is why my Department and I have put substantial money into the outdoor recreation scheme. These schemes are working well. They are good for the communities and tourism and for the well-being of people. They cost nothing. That is why this year we have doubled the funding for the walks scheme from €2 million to €4 million. I want to ensure that we reward the people who deserve to be rewarded.

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