All future greenways will be developed based on a code of practice. This code will be finalised and published before the call for new greenways closes in November. Nearly €60m has been set aside in funding for new projects and calls for applications will be opening shortly.

Plans for a code of practice were contained in the new strategy for the future development of greenways launched at the Old Moate train station by Minister for Tourism Shane Ross.

Speaking to the Irish Farmers Journal, Minister Ross said he hoped that the code of practice would bring clarification to landowners.

We are absolutely determined that insensitivities that we’ve shown to the farming community will be resolved. And we accept in the past there might have been a lack of sensitivity

Future process

In the document, it says the preferred model for future greenways is to use lands already in control of the state.

Where greenways are required to pass through privately owned lands, all projects will begin with “early and proactive engagement and consultation” with potentially affected landowners. This will be followed by early discussion and agreement on accommodation work, such as underpasses for the safe passage of animals. In all cases, agronomists will be engaged at no cost to the landowner.

The document also states that severance of land will be kept to a minimum where possible in order to reduce the impact on farms. Where access is required through lands, permission will be sought first.

However, in cases where efforts to arrive at a mutual agreement have failed, “the purchase of land using available legal mechanisms may need to be considered".

Insensitivities

At the launch, Minister Ross said: “We have had one or two problems in the past with greenways. We are absolutely determined that insensitivities that we’ve shown to the farming community will be resolved. And we accept in the past there might have been a lack of sensitivity.

“I’m absolutely certain that with a new approach and a new attitude and adequate consultation, that it will be resolved and we will not see that again.”

In a statement, the IFA have said it is not opposed to greenways but it is opposed to the use of compulsory purchase orders to develop them.

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