Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has expressed disappointment following the passing of an auction for a substantial landholding in the Wicklow Mountains, including the summit of Lugnaquilla, without any meaningful intervention from the State.
Deputy Brady had previously called on Minister Christopher O’Sullivan to act decisively to secure the lands for public ownership, and despite repeated appeals, a petition garnering over 2,600 signatures, and correspondence seeking urgent action, the Government failed to intervene.
However, Brady has now emphasised that a second golden opportunity exists for the State to act.
Teachta Brady said:
“It is deeply disappointing that the State failed to act in time to secure this extraordinary asset as it went up for auction.
“This was a clear opportunity to protect one of Ireland’s most important landscapes, and that opportunity was missed.
“But all is not lost.
“The fact that the land was not sold presents a second, immediate opportunity for the State to step in and engage directly with the sellers.
“This does not need to go to auction again, the Government can and should act now to secure this land for the public.
“The Wicklow Mountains National Park and the surrounding areas are among Ireland’s most stunning and ecologically significant landscapes.
“Bringing this land into public ownership would protect access, preserve biodiversity, and align with Ireland’s obligations under the EU Nature Restoration Law.
“It would be unconscionable for such a treasured asset to fall into foreign ownership when the State has the means and the responsibility to act.
“I again urge the Minister and Government to move quickly and decisively.
“The right decision remains clear. This land belongs in public ownership, and the opportunity to secure it is still within reach.”
ENDS