Mayo senator calls for Oireachtas support of 'distressed' Keel landowners in commonage dispute

A Mayo Oireachtas member has come out in in support of landowners in the Keel Sandybanks area of Achill in an ongoing commonage dispute.

Senator Mark Duffy elaborated: "Mayo County Council has indicated that a compulsory purchase order that was signed off by the Minister 56 years ago is now being brought to a head and that vesting is to take place.

"The understanding of all the landowners and farmers who have used this area down through the generations was that it was in their ownership, and they have the documentation to prove it. These are livelihoods involved.

"I have engaged with the Irish Natura and Hill Farmers Association, INHFA, on it recently and have spoken with landowners affected.

"It has caused a lot of fear, confusion and distress to those who have used the commonage down through the years. It is a way of life and livelihoods for them.

"I call for support to ensure there is a pause on any vesting to allow landowners and representatives to discuss it and ensure these livelihoods are protected.

"It is 400 acres of commonage. It is very important for the farmers in the Keel Sandybanks area that they are protected, not just for this generation but for future generations to come."