Farmers willing to compromise on right to travel over land
The debate has lost none of its fire, re-ignited by the expert group established by Minister Eamon Ó Cuiv, which has suggested that legislation to give members of the public the right to travel over privately owned land would not infringe Irish constitutional rights.
It appears that any progress made by Comhairle na Tuaithe has been undermined, divisions are as wide as ever, and animosity worsening.
But there is always scope for middle ground in such situations. The majority of farmers will not be found wanting in meeting the advocates of freedom to roam halfway.
For generations, farmers have been more than generous to recreational and sporting groups by allowing access over their property. Farmers have contributed to many well defined and organised walks at various locations around the country — which many walkers partake of and thoroughly enjoy. More and more walks are being developed in suitable locations.
But times have changed for everyone, and most particularly for farmers. Those likely to be visiting farms may be fully conscious of their rights in our modern litigious society, but less than fully conscious of the risks. Farmers have responsibilities for those on their land, and therefore should have rights as to who they permit to be on their property.
Some tolerance and a better understanding of farmers’ position rights would not be lost on the most vocal advocates of freedom to roam.
