Sir, - This country has made major strides in the development of long-distance walking ways and we are deeply indebted to Cospoir for its efforts. However, the footpath between Navan and Slane in Co Meath is another story. This walk, if one starts at Navan, is along the tow-path of what is left of the canal between Navan and Drogheda and continues along the river Boyne. This is potentially a magnificent walk, which shows Co Meath at its best. Unfortunately it is marred by several barbed-wire fences and long stretches with dense vegetation including briars and nettles, making parts of the walk unpleasant - especially for those in shorts. We appeal to the powers that be to tidy up the walk.
But what prompts me to write to you is the attitude expressed by a local hotelier to whom we related our tale of woe. When we suggested that a FAS scheme could be organised to clear the undergrowth we were met with the response: "Well, would you be prepared to pay for the right to walk?" We were speechless. Then he added: "We really don't want the walk opened up as it would encourage cider parties." So much for "Ireland of the Welcomes"!
There is a perception that whereas golfers and anglers pay for their day's sport, walkers expect their enjoyment free. Walkers, of course, bring no economic benefit to the local economy. They have never been known to cross the threshold of a licensed premises, nor do they stay at B & Bs or partake of repasts at local restaurants! The farmers who try to keep these troublesome parasites off their land with "Keep Out" notices and barbed-wire fences are dead right! - Yours, etc., Roger Garland, Keep Ireland Open, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14.