As the Deputy is aware the Government announced a stimulus package in July of this year and as part of that package I was delighted to announce additional funding to support active travel. All local authorities were invited to apply for this funding. In addition, local authorities funded under my Department’s regional and local road maintenance and renewal grant programme were able to apply for funding in relation to climate change adaptation measures.
The July Stimulus measures were intended to be, and announced as, projects capable of delivery this year and appropriate deadlines have been advised to local authorities. Obviously funding to support active travel projects is available as part of our standard investment programmes and my Department and the National Transport Authority (NTA) work with local authorities across the country in that regard every year.