Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 600: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the potential for the development of Donadea Forest park, castle and outbuildings, County Kildare, for educational and tourism purposes in view of the strong local commitment and the willingness to expand the facilities on a regional basis; if he will consult with other Government Departments with a potential responsibility in this area with a view to drawing up a programme with specific targets to develop the facilities to the maximum as a local, regional and national amenity with particular reference to its historical and architectural significance notwithstanding that the property is currently in private ownership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23788/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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Donadea Forest Park is owned and managed by Coillte Teoranta, which was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988. Day-to-day operational matters, such as the management of parks, are the responsibility of the company.

I understand that the primary management objective for the Park is amenity, followed by biodiversity protection and enhancement. It is one of the most widely used Coillte Forest Parks and a popular recreation area with visitor numbers estimated in excess of 100,000 per annum. It is a popular venue for a range of activities and has the potential to be used for many more local, county and national events.

I understand, from the company, that some of the potential developments include a playground, adventure course and cycle path but that any developments must be carefully considered to ensure that they fit in with the woodland setting and do not conflict with the current user group, predominantly walkers and families. With regard to the development of the castle and outbuildings for educational and tourism purposes, Coillte advise that the company is open to receiving proposals from organisations and bodies capable of bringing such proposals to fruition but that no proposals have been received to date. I have no plans at this stage to consult with other Departments on this matter.