'Unhindered access' to uplands sought

In a move that is likely to further increase tensions between farmers and walkers, the Mountaineering Council of Ireland is to campaign for "unhindered access" to upland and scenic areas.

The MCI, an umbrella group for more than 100 walking and climbing groups, calls for "reasonable access for responsible users" in a draft environmental policy newly circulated to members.

It points out that Ireland is one of the few countries in Europe that does not formally define some degree of public access to private land. Ireland also has fewer rights-of-way than other states.

The Irish Farmers' Association is currently threatening to close off rural walks in a row over compensation. The western committee of the IFA issued the threat following confirmation that the EU would not allow direct payments to be made to farmers in return for access to land.

Also in the west, farmers in upland areas are in dispute with Dúchas about access to designated special areas of conservation (SACs).

While recognising the right of farmers to erect fences for agricultural purposes, it opposes the "unnecessary" fencing of open land because this hinders access for recreational users and is "obtrusive".

The fencing of traditionally open high areas of rough grazing and the fenced subdivision of private commonage "seriously detract" from the quality of the upland environment, according to the document. Fences on hill routes used by walkers should incorporate stiles.

Farmers should be compensated where providing access to walkers and other recreational users involves a loss or expense, but grants should not encourage over-grazing or over-cultivation.

The MCI says it is not opposed to all development in upland areas, but calls for building to be located "where it does not destroy the essential character of the undeveloped landscape of the upland and coast". Proposals that threaten to erode the remoteness and natural beauty of the landscape should be "critically examined".

The MCI also wants the installation of effective barriers and the introduction of new by-laws to prevent off-road vehicles such as quad-bikes and scramblers using forest and hill tracks.

While recognising that upland farmers may use such vehicles for their work, the council says local residents, recreational users and wildlife are affected by disturbance. In addition, "off-road use of vehicles damages sensitive environments, leaves scars on the landscape and worsens erosion".

The council acknowledges that most erosion of upland footpaths is caused by hillwalkers. Where alternatives exist, it asks walkers to avoid routes that are badly eroded, and says that no walking group should be bigger than 15 people.

The MCI draft policy is being discussed at meetings throughout the State in the coming week. More information from www.mountaineering.ie.