The programme for Government reiterates the intention to continue the development of greenways and cycle routes across Ireland, which I warmly welcome. Greenways have simply transformed rural communities throughout Ireland. However, I want to flag a concern following a decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission to Blessington greenway due to wildlife and environmental concerns. If roadblocks such as these continue, I honestly fear for the future of greenways. I would like a reassurance that this will be addressed. For example, in my constituency of Wicklow-Wexford, approval for the Arklow to Shillelagh greenway is both eagerly and long awaited. This greenway would bring much needed opportunity to south Wicklow, to small rural communities such as Shillelagh, Tinahely, Annacura, Aughrim, Woodenbridge and Arklow. We have all travelled the world.

Thank you, Deputy. Time is up.

I would like to re-emphasise how important it is that we have access to our countryside and our greenways.

There are enormous investments in greenways, walkways and cycleways across the country. Biodiversity and wildlife must be protected as well but the two are mutually exclusive. The specifications on some of the greenways are sometimes a bit higher than people would have anticipated. These issues should be resolved, and they can be resolved with a bit of imagination and creativity and not having to be exact all the time in terms of some of the standards. Some of the ones in Cork are excellent, but there is one park where there is more tarmacadam than is necessary. We had greenways prior to the more modern ones and there just needs to be a bit of common sense in working out of greenways. They are phenomenal, have a huge impact and bring people closer to nature by virtue of the facility created, which is positive overall. I take on board what the Deputy is saying. I do not have the specifics of the area, but there certainly needs to be common sense-----

I thank the Taoiseach. The time is up.