I propose to take Questions Nos. 350 to 352, inclusive, together.
In August 2013, my Department announced a second round of funding for cycle infrastructure under the National Cycle Network Programme and the closing date for applications was 15 November. It is intended that approx. €6.5 million will be allocated to local authorities for the development of such infrastructure over the period 2014 to 2016.
Kerry County Council submitted two applications for greenway projects under the Programme. The applications relate to a proposal for a greenway from Glenbeigh to Renard Point, Caherciveen as well as a proposal for a greenway on the North Kerry Line, a 9km extension of the 39 km Great Southern Trail between the Kerry/Limerick border to Listowel.
In total, my Department has received thirty-eight applications from twenty-eight local authorities. All proposals are currently being assessed by an expert panel comprising of officials from my Department, the National Transport Authority, the National Trails Office and Fáilte Ireland. It is expected that successful projects will be announced in the coming weeks.
Given the funding available, I expect that only 2 or 3 projects, or phases of projects, will be funded. Kerry County Council's applications will be assessed as part of the overall competitive process and will be measured against the criteria outlined in the funding call in August 2013. Priority will be given to those projects with most potential to become world class, trip attracting cycle ways.