Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was involved in buying a soccer pitch in my town of Boyle in the late 1980s and I know the use that has been made of it over the past 35 years. It was money well spent, so I understand the Senator's position.

She requested a meeting with the Department. It is not my Department, but if she writes to the Minister, we can pursue that request.

I restate my support for the excellent work being carried out by local community groups throughout the country. The Defence Forces make time and facilities available to local groups where possible, but they must also consider their operational requirements. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to accommodate within the role and requirements of the Defence Forces requests from communities to access lands.

I ask that the Senator write in and seek a meeting. I would love to see there being some mechanism whereby the local community could access those lands. I have seen myself how important such activities can be.