Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have to agree with Deputy Cannon. There is no question that ORIS and the other schemes we have all over the country are major tourist attractions, and not alone for people walking but also for people's health. They were a godsend in every corner in this country, in particular, during Covid-19

The next time the Minister is having discussions with the local authorities, she might ask them to make sure they maintain them, because the Minister and Department have done fabulous work. That is part of the problem. They need to put schemes in place to make sure they are maintained because they are great assets for counties and for the country. The number of people who come to my county and into my town and area for walks is good for tourism, bed and breakfast accommodation, food outlets and pubs. It brings thousands of people. They have been a great success. I would not like to see anything happening to them, which is why I would like the local authorities to take a keener interest in maintaining some of them.

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