COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

MOTION NO. 9

MOTION: Councillor B. Bonner

Cathaoirleach's Business

That the Manager would present a report on the operation of the Pet Farm in Corkagh Park.  The children in St. Bernadette's School, Quarryvale spent a most enjoyable day in Corkagh Park as part of their St. Brigid's Day / First day of Spring celebrations and they had a great time in the farm and in the playground.  Congratulations and thanks to all the park staff.

REPORT:

The Pet Farm in Corkagh Park has been operating since 2009 and has proved to be a very successful initiative, attracting large numbers of school tours and other visitors to the Park, particularly during the spring/summer months.  Admission to the Pet Farm is free but donations towards the upkeep of the farm from organised groups etc. are accepted.  The site of the Pet Farm is located centrally in the park near the Rose Garden, Arboretum and Visitor Centre. There are a range of farm animals and pets housed on the farm including Shetland ponies, sheep, goats, pigs, parrots, owls, smaller cage birds, turkeys, hens, ducks, geese,etc.  During the summer months the Pet Farm is open each day from 11.00a.m. to 3.00 p.m. or outside these hours by prior arrangement.  The Pet Farm is closed during the winter months except at weekends or by specific appointment. The work on the construction and development of the facility has been carried out by the Parks Staff based in Corkagh Depot.  A small number of the animals have been donated by members of the public and the DSPCA. The daily feeding of the animals and the cleaning and maintenance of the facility is also carried out by Parks Staff based in Corkagh Depot, who also undertake this work on a voluntary basis at weekends.