Council aims to keep it country

A COUNTRYSIDE council that will address contentious farm and tourism issues such as hill walking and recreational access to lands was launched yesterday by the Community Affairs Minister Eamon O’Cuiv.

He said the aim of Comhairle na Tuaithe was:

To resolve conflicts over access to lands.

To keep all groups concerned with countryside development informed.

To raise awareness and carry out research and training.

“I would hope that by sitting round the table in a spirit of co-operation, we can resolve this issue surrounding the debate on access in the context of the development of the rural economy,” Mr O’Cuiv said.

Mr O’Cuiv stressed he accepts farmers have land rights and he understands there are concerns regarding issues such as insurance and accidents.

“However, in the exercise of their rights, and without prejudicing them, I would ask farmers to look, not only at their own individual good but also at the good of the community in which they live.

“Similarly, I would say to tourist interests, they must see farmers as partners and work in agreement with them,” he said.

Comhairle na Tuaithe includes representatives from farming organisations, Coillte, tourism marketing bodies, the Irish Sports Council, the Heritage Council and recreational users of the countryside.