Dáil Éireann - Volume 508 - 29 September, 1999

Written Answers. - Donadea Forest Park.

707. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Donadea forest park, County Kildare, is in the ownership of Coillte; the steps, if any, she has taken to secure Donadea forest park for the people of Kildare and the State by seeking the transfer of the park to Dúchas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17551/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I am aware that Donadea forest park is owned and managed by Coillte. Part of the woodland at Donadea is a proposed natural heritage area and will therefore enjoy protection under the Wildlife (Amendment) Bill when enacted. Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, has no plans to acquire the property.