Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ó Fearghaíl for his supplementary contribution. For the information of the House, as the Minister with responsibility for defence, the Tánaiste is the custodian and guardian of the Curragh lands pursuant to the provisions of the Curragh of Kildare Act 1961. Under that Act, the Curragh Plains are recognised as a working environment for the State's Defence Forces as well as being a place of historical and cultural importance.

As I have already stated, the Tánaiste remains absolutely and fully committed to pursuing a modern and sustainable regulatory model in managing the historically important landscape that is the Curragh. The Curragh Plains conservation management plan, having been finalised and published in December 2024, is currently under consideration by officials in the Department of Defence. I take on board the Deputy's very sincere concern that this needs to be considered and acted upon in advance of the summer months. I will take that back to the Tánaiste but, as already alluded to, he is well aware of the need for this to be acted on swiftly. The conservation management plan will provide the foundation for implementing the recommendations identified, including the progression of that management. Any such proposals will be brought before Government to decide on a future management structure. I reiterate that it is the intention of the Tánaiste to ensure that the Curragh Plains are protected into the future while we also ensure maximum benefit. It is simply unacceptable that nothing is done. Something very serious has to be done. The Tánaiste and the Government have accepted that. Work has commenced on doing that and on making sure the plan is implemented and enforced. Enforcement will be key to this. I fully take on board the comments the Deputy has made regarding court orders but I will not delve too far into them. He will understand why more than anyone else in this House would. I will raise this with the Tánaiste again tomorrow and I will make sure the Deputy is kept fully abreast of the matter.

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