Walkers' access to privately owned land continues to cause controversy with walking groups and farmers groups at odds over whether walkers should be allowed access. Avril Horan reports.

The Galway Walking Club has backed the latest call to resolve the ongoing controversy over access to private land.

Gaeltacht Minister ?amon O Cu?v has come under increasing pressure to propose legislation that will give hikers and walkers the right to access privately owned parts of the countryside.

The Mountaineering Council of Ireland (MCI) has called on the minister to propose the legislation. The call comes in the wake of a report, commissioned by the Gaeltacht Minister, which looks favourably on the rights of walkers.

However, the move could cause uproar among the farming community, many of whom are strongly opposed to the introduction of such legislation.

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) has rejected going down the legal road through legislature, opting instead for consultation and negotiation. Local IFA representative, Barry Donnelly from Abbey, Loughrea says they are "totally opposed" to the possibility of new legislation.

"We are totally opposed to any move which would devalue farmers' land," says Mr Donnelly.

"The Minister would be taking a very dangerous step if he goes ahead. If the government can claim rights over private property then that land will be devalued. We can't support any move that would impinge on a farmer's right to his own property," he adds.

Chairperson of the Galway Walking Club, Tom Huban, admits there is tension between the farming community and recreational walkers.

Mr Huban, from Derrydonnell, Oranmore, says the club would welcome legislation giving walkers the right to access privately owned land. While the Galway club hasn't encountered any problems over land access, the walking club in Clarinbridge was denied access on a trip to the Burren.

"The attitude towards recreational walkers has changed in the past few years," says Mr Huban.

"Farmers think we will damage their land, or that we will sue them if someone gets hurt. But that is simply not the case as we are all insured by the MCI," he explains.

The report outlined that the Government can legislate to allow access to land for recreational purposes - without a right for landowners to seek compensation - and is now with the countryside council, Comhairle Na Tuaithe, for consideration.

Meanwhile, the Galway Walking Club is gearing up for the 11th anniversary of their annual marathon, which takes place on Saturday 11 August. The 26-mile trek will take walkers along the picturesque Western Way from Killary to Maum Bridge. All are welcome to participate.

Why walk?

The Galway Walking Club is actively promoting walking as a fun way to get fit and stay healthy. While you may not be taking part in this year's Western Way Marathon Walk on Saturday 11 August, here are other reasons why you should get your walking boots on.