Louth councillor voices strong opposition to proposed Greenway

Councillor John Reilly has voiced strong opposition to the proposed Dundalk-Greenore Greenway, citing concerns over the use of “top-quality agricultural land” for the development. Speaking this week, Cllr Reilly, who says he is the only member of Louth County Council who owns livestock and holds a herd number, emphasised his firm stance against compulsory land acquisition (CPO) for the project.

“The Cooley Peninsula is home to some of the best agricultural land in the county, land that is critical for farming families and food production. To consider purchasing this prime farmland, particularly when it is not state-owned, is simply unacceptable”, he stated.

Cllr Reilly acknowledged the benefits of greenways in promoting tourism and recreation but questioned the necessity of another project in the area. “We already have the Omeath Greenway, which has been a fantastic addition for locals and visitors alike. But this plan risks undermining the livelihoods of farmers who depend on this land. If this were state-owned land, it might be a different conversation, but we’re talking about private holdings here.”

The proposed Dundalk-Greenore Greenway aims to connect various scenic parts of the peninsula, enhancing connectivity for cyclists and walkers. However, the plan has been met with mixed reactions. While it is seen as a boost for tourism and the local economy, some, like Cllr Reilly, believe it comes at too high a cost.

“I cannot support a project that involves compulsory purchasing of farmland”, he said. “Farmers are already under immense pressure, and taking their land for a greenway is not the way forward. To put a tarmac drive in a land of such fertility would be a travesty.”

Cllr Reilly highlighted additional concerns raised by local farmers and residents. “The vast majority of people I’ve spoken to are not in favor of this project. They fear the fragmentation of their land, the challenges of managing livestock near the greenway safely, and complications accessing their fields for spraying crops or other essential agricultural work.”

Furthermore, Cllr Reilly pointed out that the Cooley Peninsula already boasts thousands of acres of commonage grazing land that is legally accessible for walkers. “This land offers ample opportunities for recreational walking without encroaching on privately owned farmland. We should be promoting these existing resources rather than creating unnecessary conflicts with landowners”, he said.

Cllr Reilly says he intends to work closely with recently elected TD for Louth, Paula Butterly, who has a legal background, to explore alternative approaches. “This is about fairness and protecting our agricultural heritage”, he concluded. “As a farmer myself, I understand the stakes better than most, and I won’t stand by and let this happen without a fight.”

The greenway proposal has sparked heated debates across the peninsula.