Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I thank Deputy Ó Fearghaíl for keeping in touch with me on this.

Let me say to anyone who wishes to illegally camp on the Curragh Plains that it will not be tolerated. We went to the High Court this week in relation to the situation. The Garda has been there. Bailiffs have been there. If you come there illegally, you will be moved on. That is absolutely crystal clear. I thank my officials, the Defence Forces, the Garda and everybody else who are making sure that the laws of this land get upheld.

Of course, Deputy Ó Fearghaíl is correct. This is a national resource. It is an incredible resource, not only for the people of Kildare but for the people of Ireland. The programme for Government does give that commitment. There has been good work done. I and the Minister of State, Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan, are in advanced discussions. I would hope, certainly, I believe, within a matter of weeks, we will be able to bring forward a plan on a way forward that better manages and points out the future direction of how we manage the Curragh Plains.

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