Fine Gael TD for Kildare South Martin Heydon has today (Friday) said that he is seeking the views of those that use the Curragh to assist him in his discussions with State Departments on improvements that can be made to the operation and management of the Curragh Plains.
“The Curragh Plains are an amazing resource for South Kildare, from the home of our Defence Forces to a location synonymous with excellence in horse racing. This 5,000 acre stretch of common land has an illustrious heritage which could be better understood and utilised by locals and visitors alike with some changes and improvements.
“I believe the Curragh Plains has an untapped potential in terms of increased economic activity from the equine industry, from a tourism perspective, from a recreational and leisure perspective along with its rich and diverse heritage.
“I have highlighted this potential in Dáil Éireann and discussed it on a number of occasions with Minister Simon Coveney since his appointment as Minister for Defence in July 2014. Now I want the feedback of those familiar with the plains, from those who work there with horses, sheep or the military to the many South Kildare residents who use it for running, walking or just flying a kite with the family.
“What is your perspective of the Curragh at present? What are the challenges that you see. How can we, in tapping into the resources of the different state departments, improve the management and operation of the plains for everyone’s benefit?
“I am urging Kildare residents to complete my short survey available on my website www.martinheydon.com to give me a better understanding of what the Curragh means to them and how we can grow it’s potential.”