Curragh Protection Efforts Intensify As New Bill Moves Forward In Seanad

Wednesday, 23 October 2024 14:49

By Martin Osborne

The bill aims to address illegal encampments on the Curragh Plains.

A Private Members Bill on the Curragh has successfully passed its Second Stage in the Seanad.

The bill aims to address illegal encampments on the Curragh Plains.

Senator Fiona O’Loughlin expressed her satisfaction with the Bill's progress and highlighted the government's commitment to strengthen protections for the Curragh.

She also welcomed the imminent publication of the Report on the Curragh Consultancy Project, which will review existing bye-laws and consider the establishment of a new agency to manage the area.

“This week I have received the final draft of the report on the Curragh Consultancy Project and intend to publish it shortly. The Report reviews the Curragh Byelaws and the Curragh of Kildare Act, with a view to identifying amendments that could potentially provide more effective solutions to the issues of illegal encampments, illegal dumping and illegal parking," O loughlin said.

She added: "It also looks at the establishment of a new agency for the Curragh or assigning an existing specialist State Agency to manage the Plains. Such a measure would allow for enhanced engagement with stakeholders and the general public."

"The Report also examines the development of the Curragh as a tourist destination, potentially including the development of a Curragh Visitor, Management and Archive Centre. Coupled with this would be the creation of an overarching brand concept for the Plains to maximise the impact of focal points such as the Military Museum and the Curragh Racecourse," she said.