Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2016
716. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding available from his Department for 2017 for the development of walking and cycling tourism; the way this money will be disbursed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36889/16]
View answerMy Department's role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national tourism policy. It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism sectors such as walking or cycling, which are operational matters for the Board and Management of Fáilte Ireland. I have asked Fáilte Ireland to reply you directly in regard to its investment in and development of these sectors, including any funding available. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply in ten working days.
With regard to my Department's responsibility in respect of sustainable transport, under the Capital Plan, €100 million is committed to smarter travel and carbon reduction measures which includes funding for the further development of greenways. The Programme for Government also commits to providing additional capital funding for various tourism projects, including greenways. I will be seeking to deliver this additional funding in the context of the mid-term review of the Capital Plan next year.
My Department is currently developing a new strategy to set out a cohesive and forward looking approach to the development, funding and promotion of greenways and intends to consult with all stakeholders in the coming months. The outcome of this consultation and the resulting strategy will inform my Department's approach in relation to the allocation of available greenway funding in 2017 and beyond.
