According to the Taoiseach, the government is interested in talking to the owner of land near Conor Pass in County Kerry about buying it. Leo Varadkar argued, however, that the State would not provide the whole €10 million that is being asked for it.

He expressed his desire for Ireland's National Park to be expanded but said that a “reasonable” price would need to be set.

The historic property near Daingean U Chis has been listed for sale by its American owner Mike Noonan for €10 million.

Since roughly 25 years ago, Mr. Noonan, whose family comes from outside Tipperary, has been purchasing property in the region, initially in the form of “more scenic land” and subsequently in the form of forestry.

The 1,400-acre property contains sheep and 400 acres of mature woodland that have been cleared so hillwalkers may explore the area.

Mr. Noonan insists on maintaining the property as a whole and not have it broken into different areas.