Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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Question 126: To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the steps he is taking to maximise the use of public properties and properties that have a scientific interest in terms of public access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21603/12]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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There are approximately 750 national monuments in the ownership or guardianship of my Department, including Newgrange, the Rock of Cashel, and Kilmainham Gaol. The day-to-day management of these national monuments lies with the Office of Public Works (OPW). There is significant public access to these properties and, in many cases, guided tours are available. Information about these properties and about access to them is available on the OPW's website at www.heritageireland.ie.

My Department, through its National Parks and Wildlife Service, manages 6 State-owned national parks, as well as 78 nature reserves, 66 of which are in State ownership. National parks and nature reserves are generally open year round. Information on public access to the national parks and nature reserves and their scientific significance can be found on my Department's National Parks and Wildlife's website at www.npws.ie. To encourage and maximise use of these wonderful facilities, access is free of charge in all cases.

There is evidence to suggest that Ireland's historic and natural environment is an increasingly important element of our national tourism product. Investment in the conservation of our built and natural heritage has the dual benefits of preserving these properties for the enjoyment of present and future generations, while also improving the local and national economy through the generation and expansion of responsible sustainable tourism. It is, therefore, my intention to facilitate, to the greatest extent possible, public access and appropriate visitor use of national parks and nature reserves. Such access and use must be consistent with the ethos of the parks as natural places of peace and tranquillity set in scenic landscapes, as well as being compatible with the conservation and biodiversity considerations that are of necessity associated with the management of heritage properties. For example, the national parks and nature reserves are largely covered by designations under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives and all activities within these sites must be consistent with the requirements of the Directives.

Within the constraints imposed by current economic conditions, I will invest in visitor facilities in parks and nature reserves to maximise their sustainable use and enjoyment. To this end, and building on previous investment in this area, my Department is working on proposals to further develop visitor facilities such as walking routes, enhanced signage and interpretation.

As regards visitor centres, in the last few years my Department has opened modern top quality centres at Ballycroy National Park, Co. Mayo, and Clara Bog Nature Reserve in Co. Offaly. Also, I will shortly open the new Burren National Park Visitor Information Point in Corofin, Co. Clare, while work is progressing on the redevelopment of Killarney House in Killarney National Park.