Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has made a very important point in talking about disputed routes. Two weeks ago, I was in Cashel to launch the St. Declan's Way walk. It is another part of the strategic plan. It is the most fantastic walk between Cashel and Ardmore. What struck me on that walk was the number of landowners who were present, who had engaged and who had made the walk the success it was. There was funding from the Department of the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, the LEADER programme, the local authorities, loads of volunteers and a committee set up, but it could never have happened without the landowners engaging. This was an old traditional, religious walk that was there many years ago, passing through Mountmelleray, in Waterford, that the monks used to walk. More than 4,000 people walked it last year.

To add to the Deputy's point, when we talk about disputed routes, I think that is the only time we hear any issues around it. People love walking. They love getting out. We have greenways now throughout the country, which is fantastic to see.

I reiterate the fact the local authorities have sufficient powers under planning legislation for the creation of rights of way. Sometimes, however, when these particular rights of way are forced, it can end up with neighbours falling out with neighbours, and that is the last thing you want. I will certainly take on board the points the Deputy made about the possibility of some form of arbitration. He is speaking specifically about disputed routes. I am sorry those two gentlemen he met had that negative experience.

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