Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has called on the Government to urgently intervene and purchase a substantial landholding in the Wicklow Mountains, including the summit of Lugnaquilla, which is due to go to auction on the 1st of May.
The 1,527-acre property, that includes Ireland’s second-highest peak, is currently on the market with a guide price of €2 million, which is significantly reduced from its previous €7 million valuation.
Deputy Brady has written to the Minister to request immediate action, warning that failure to act would be a massive missed opportunity and could see this iconic landscape fall into private international ownership.
Teachta Brady said:
“This is a no brainer.
“The fact that this stunning parcel of land, including the summit of Lugnaquilla, is now up for grabs is a massive opportunity that the State should not miss.
“The selling agent has already indicated there is global interest in the land, including from buyers in the Middle East.
“It would be unconscionable for such a treasured asset to pass into foreign ownership.
“The Wicklow Mountains, including the Wicklow Mountains National Park are among Ireland’s most stunning and important landscapes, and this represents an opportunity to add to the existing State lands.
“This land should not be treated as a commodity to be sold to the highest international bidder.
“I have formally written to the Minister requesting that the State step in to purchase this land and secure it for the public good.
“This acquisition would not only protect public access but also align with Ireland’s obligations under the EU Nature Restoration Law, particularly with regard to the focus on making use of public lands.
“Time is tight and with the auction date fast approaching, the Minister must act quickly and decisively.
“I will continue to keep the pressure on to ensure that this opportunity is not lost.
“The right decision here is clear – this land belongs in public ownership.
“I have also launched a public petition to allow people to show their support for this proposal.”
ENDS
Link to petition: https://c.org/R2gF9qXVgV