Farmers central to protecting heritage

THE Heritage Council yesterday called for greater recognition for farmers and landowners for the pivotal role they can play as custodians of the country’s heritage and environment.

Chief executive Michael Starrett said there was an urgent need to take a more coordinated approach to managing the countryside.

“Ireland lags far behind most European countries in the approach it takes towards managing our countryside and we will need to take serious steps to safeguard and protect it,” he said.