Two new staff to be recruited to support the work of the Curragh rangers

The Minister for Defence Paul Kehoe has confirmed two additional staff have now been recruited to assist with the land management of the Curragh Plains, according to Deputy Martin Heydon.

“Having pushed for additional resources, to be put into the active management of the Curragh Plains for some time I am pleased that Minister Kehoe confirmed that the recruitment process for the appointment of additional Curragh Plains land management staff to support the work of the Curragh Maor has been completed and that two new employees commenced work this week," he said.

“These additional resources will assist the Maor with the management of the Curragh Plains and share in the task of overseeing activities on the ground including, but not limited to, litter, sheep branding, patrolling, monitoring users of lands, inspection of property boundaries, illegal encampments and engagement with the public."

He said the Minister also highlighted that his Department has had discussions with Kildare County Council to explore the potential for collaboration on addressing issues and identifying opportunities for the improved management and presentation of the Curragh Plains. 

"As part of these discussions, it was agreed that a multi-disciplinary consultancy team should be appointed to examine current and future challenges arising for the area in the context of conservation and management of the Plains and any scope for the development potential of the areas as a high value visitor and cultural amenity attraction," he said.

“I will continue to work to ensure the development of an overall conservation management plan for the Curragh Plains."

The Department of Defence and the Curragh committee have come under fire from councillors, in particular Cllr Fiona McLoughlin Healy, in recent times concerning illegal dumping at the landmark. She is also concerned about it's future and the protection of the plains.