Hildegarde Naughton (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of greenways in the aftermath of a meeting which took place this morning with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Donohoe, in respect of the greenway from Loughrea to Galway. While there were few difficulties regarding the part of the route from Dublin to Athlone, with land being provided by Waterways Ireland and the public transport authorities, the proposed route from Loughrea to Galway traverses through private lands. At this morning's meeting I raised the concerns of landowners and farmers regarding the consultation process, particularly their view to the effect that it has not been adequate. Farmers are particularly concerned with regard to the potential devaluation of their lands and the fact that such lands will be bisected by the greenway. They would experience huge difficulties in terms of moving animals across the greenway on multiple occasions each day. There are also concerns with regard to insurance and the fact that insufficient protection may be provided in the context of farm animals entering the greenway and causing danger to the public. The latter could give rise to a high potential cost for farmers. All of the concerns to which I refer were raised with the Minister at this morning's meeting. Farmers and farming organisations are very much in favour of greenways and realise their potential as a tourism amenity for the western region. However, they are calling for proper consultation and community consent. The latter will be key if we want the greenway project to be successful. The Minister, Deputy Donohoe, has committed to providing a response to the concerns that have been raised in the coming weeks. I ask the Leader to invite him to come before the Seanad in order that he might do so here.