Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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430. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the steps taken to ensure continued open access to mountains and other areas for hill climbers and for general recreational use on such lands in view of the recent court case where €40,000 damages was awarded against the National Parks and Wildlife Service; if he has discussed this matter with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht; if a memorandum will be brought to Government in relation to this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8122/16]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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As the Deputy will be aware, my Department operates a Walks Scheme covering certain National Way Marked Ways and Trails, which are accredited by the National Trails Office. Insurance arrangements are in place that indemnify private landowners whose lands are traversed by those trails.

In relation to facilitating access to mountains and upland areas for recreational purposes, my Department is continuing to liaise with the State Claims Agency regarding the development of a National Indemnity Scheme for private landowners, who facilitate access to their lands in upland areas for recreational purposes. The purpose of the Scheme is to indemnify participating private landowners against civil suits .

Regarding the recent Court proceedings referred to by the Deputy, I have not had discussions with the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in relation to the case. However, I am advised that the Minister has appealed the matter to the High Court.