Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2024
75. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport the up-to-date position regarding new calls for active travel projects in 2024; if there is an anti-rural bias in the allocation of funding and the projects completed nationwide to date; if he will provide a detailed breakdown of where the funding has gone, projects completed and whether each was an urban or rural location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22110/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
Funding under the Active Travel Programme is focused on areas where it will have the greatest impact in terms of modal shift away from private cars. As the pipeline of projects continues to grow, we are now moving into a period of project prioritisation. While this may favour projects in urban areas, there is no requirement that funding must be spent in larger towns and cities. Viable projects in smaller towns and villages in rural areas are eligible for funding under the Active Travel Programme.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
