Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 July 2018
663. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the strategy in relation to the development of greenways will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32237/18]
View answerI plan to publish the Strategy in the coming weeks.
The Strategy will provide a framework for the development of Ireland's greenways ensuring the best possible return for State investment. Furthermore, the Strategy will determine the type of project that will be funded over the coming decade by my Department and will set out guidance and options for project promoters in relation to the challenges faced in delivering greenway infrastructure. It will also emphasise the need for early and wide consultation with all landowners.
Following the publication of the Strategy I will announce a funding call with a view to awarding funding for drawdown between 2019 and 2021 to the successful projects. I was pleased to secure additional funding for greenways last year bringing the total available for the period 2018 to 2021 to €55.9 million.
Given the increased interest in greenways in recent years I expect that there will be a strong response to this funding call. I would again urge local authorities and state agencies interested in applying for funding to progress their planning and design of greenways as far as possible in advance of the funding call and to clarify any land access issues following extensive consultation with landowners.
