At the forefront of developing new tourism opportunities for farmers
A summary of the aims identified by John O’Donnell’s Rural Development Committee is set out.
We believe that there is significant potential in agri-tourism, and ICMSA is determined that the farm family on whom this niche tourism sector depends will be adequately recognised and rewarded.
* There should be increased engagement with farmers in promotion of walking and cycling opportunities.
* Cycling lane pathways should be paid for on same basis as walkways.
* With increasing access to private land for recreational use, there is a necessity to clarify and declare the law to protect property owners’ rights, such as to prevent totally the dilution of property rights, or the total erosion of some property rights by usage and by usage over time.
In this regard, ICMSA strongly recommends and will continue to seek legislation along the US model which declares in law that the use of private property for recreational use by agreement, permission or otherwise does not and will not over any time period bestow any rights on any user or dilute any property rights of the owner.
* Local groups should be supported in marketing and organising walking and cycling weekend festivals to bring people to rural areas.
* All organisations on Comhairle na Tuaithe should issue at least one statement to encourage a national Countryside Recreation Strategy.
* County and Regional Committees should be set up to promote the Countryside Recreation Strategy.
* Pilot counties like Mayo where a County Walking Officer, a Heritage Officer and a Sports Council representative exist, should lead the way.
* The Wicklow Way Country side Recreation Strategy should be used as a template.
* The Department of Health should be asked to back the aims of Comhairle na Tuaithe from a health point of view.
* Rural Recreation Officer and Rural Social Scheme supervisors to monitor maintenance of walks and cycle ways and engage with local groups.
