The "thorny issue" of access to walkways will be addressed by the Rural/Agri Tourism Advisory Group, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Mr Ó Cuív, promised yesterday.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the group in Carlow, the Minister said that the issue of outdoor recreation was on the group's agenda. This would include the issue of access to walkways.
The Minister added that a community solution was the best way forward.
The group has the task of preparing guidelines for the rural/agri tourism element of the National Rural Development Programme, for which €30 million has been allocated. It would focus on identifying the opportunities and related employment activity in the sector.
It would also discuss methods of ensuring value for the money being spent and the issue of access through farmland to "Waymarked Walks".
The Minister said that the body would also work on developing enhanced co-operation between LEADER (an EU programme for rural development) groups and the State agencies responsible for the development of tourism.
"The rural/agri tourism sector is a key factor in ensuring the improved economic benefit of rural areas," Mr Ó Cuív said.
"I consider that it is vital to ensure that the €30 million funding allocated under the National Rural Development Programme for this sector is spent in a strategic way to guarantee tangible results on the ground and benefits to local communities."
Among the organisations represented on the group are Irish Farmhouse Holidays, the IFA, the ICMSA, Bord Fáilte, Tourism Ireland and Teagasc.