Killykeen chalets are part of the lot, the sale of which is expected to be completed imminently.Photo: Damian McCarney

Killykeen will remain open to the public following sale, vows minister

Killykeen Forest Park will remain open to the public and that fishing rights will not be affected by the sale of the holiday village, the minister for agriculture has confirmed.

Local TD Niamh Smyth raised concerns over the sale with Minister Michael Creed, and was relieved to receive assurances on the matter. 

'I am happy to report that the Minister has told me that Killykeen Forest Park will not be affected by the sale. It will remain open to the public and the Minister has also confirmed that fishing rights at Killykeen will not be impacted by the sale,' Deputy Smyth said.

Deputy Smyth continued, “The complex contains circa 30 acres and I have to say that I am disappointed to hear from the Minister that Cavan County Council was not kept informed from the beginning on the sale of this holiday village. It is an integral part of our local tourism sector and when you look at the success of the Cavan Burren – you see how influential Cavan County Council has been in this project. Their knowledge and expertise could have been tapped into by the new potential owners. ”

'Coillte has advised the Minister that in reviewing the submissions from interested parties for Killykeen Holiday Complex, they took into consideration their respective business development proposals for this site. It would have been more favourable if the council were involved in all negotiations from day one and I would hope that it's not too late to consult with the council on any plans for this complex.'

The Fianna Fáil deputy concluded, “The sale of this complex is imminent and I have asked the Minister for a timeline on the completion of this sale. My only hope now is that the Minister sticks to his word and ensures that the forest remains as accessible as it is to the public and that fishing rights are not affected.”