Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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438. To ask the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the land erosion on traditional walking paths on the mountain ranges here; if he will confirm that it is his intention to establish proper developed pathways in order to prevent the erosion from the increased footfall in hill walkers but in particular the use of bikes, motorbikes and quads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12097/14]

Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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439. To ask the Minister for Defence in view of the increase in participation by walkers using for recreational purposes the magnificent mountain ranges of the Dublin-Wicklow mountains, if he is satisfied that he has sufficient funds to develop pathways to alleviate the erosion that is occurring on this mountain range; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12102/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 438 and 439 together.

There are no plans to establish developed pathways on the mountain areas under the Department’s control. The military authorities are very conscious that areas where there are firing ranges e.g.Glen of Imaal, Kilbride Camp and Kilworth Camp are very popular with recreational walkers and every step is taken to ensure the safety of those walkers. These include the continuous marking of the traditional walkways through/around Defence lands, the erection of warning signs and the placing of advertisements in the local and national press.