Madam, - It's a pity the writer of your Editorial "Hillwalking at a price" (August 1st) failed to take account of the spirit of co-operation that underpins the IFA's new policy for countryside walkways.
Our document points out that society and walkers should appreciate that the farm is a working environment and that private property is respected. It also puts forward an initiative designed to recognise the increased demand for use of the countryside.
This is in contrast to the "open countryside policy" mentioned in your editorial, which is precisely the type of terminology that has hindered an agreed use of the countryside in the past.
The IFA's policy is based on managed access to the countryside by means of designated walkways and there is a direct cost involved in terms of fencing, stiles, gates, etc.
Rather than acknowledge the IFA's genuine efforts to strike a balance between farmers' legitimate interests and the undoubted tourism potential that exists in developing walking, you concentrate on the payment element of our policy.
In the context of a sector which is worth €5 billion in earnings to the Irish economy, is a scheme costing €15 million so unreasonable? The sum involved could create up to 2,000 kilometres of walkway, allowing visitors to use trails that are properly marked and maintained.
As for local authorities having to indemnify landowners against any claims, the special legislation you mention has been the subject of a lengthy and expensive court challenge.
The IFA will continue to promote the managed use of the countryside and will lobby Government to support this by backing the reasonable scheme that would allow it to happen. - Yours, etc,
JOHN DILLON,
IFA President,
Irish Farm Centre,
Dublin 12.