Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
235. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport when the review of extra National Transport Authority staff being allocated to local authorities in relation to active travel will conclude and a decision be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21679/21]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public and sustainable transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including resourcing.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department announced funding in January for up to 248 new jobs in local authorities around the country to expand walking and cycling facilities all over the country. This increase in resourcing reflects the significantly increased funding of circa €360 per annum for walking and cycling over the planned lifetime of the Government. The additional staff will be dedicated to delivering and promoting active travel in Ireland and will work across design, communication, community liaison and construction oversight.
The NTA has developed a five year walking and cycling infrastructure delivery plan, including consideration of necessary institutional arrangements and resource requirements needed to ensure delivery of the active travel infrastructure programme. It is my understanding that the NTA are in the process of contacting local authorities to advise them of the number of resources authorised for funding under this plan. Standard recruitment procedures will then be undertaken by the local authorities.
