Sinn Féin MEP Liadh Ní Riada said the Gearagh is an important ecological area which should be protected.
She said: "As the major landowner in the area the ESB has a special, not to mention legal, obligation to put a comprehensive management plan in place for this unique nature reserve.
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"I have engaged with local community groups, businesses, landowners and amenity users in the area to gauge opinion on how best to develop the area. Just last November I hosted a public meeting to give the people of the area a place to air their views on the site and the overwhelming consensus has always been that the area must be conserved and its potential for scientific research, education and eco-tourism developed in a way that supports conservation objectives.
"The ESB has been slow to begin drafting a management plan and even then only began the process after significant pressure from myself and local campaigners.
"They have thus far failed to engage with local stakeholders or the wider community and this is causing great concern among the many people who wish to see the area protected."
(CD/LM)
