The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association has welcomed the Government’s “pragmatic decision” not to press ahead with legislation in relation to access to the countryside for recreational use.

ICSA Connaught/Ulster vice president and member of Comhairle na Tuaithe, John Flynn, said, “This move recognises the consensual approach adopted at Comhairle na Tuaithe level towards hillwalking and the development of tourism arising from it. ICSA agrees with the Minister for the Environment that the current permissive access regime for recreational enjoyment of hill areas is working well. Maintaining this while continuing to debate the issues surrounding access to the countryside is a very pragmatic decision.”