Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 23 March 2023
179. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the 2023 Active Travel budget and current data on uptake by local authorities, campuses and hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14442/23]
View answer180. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the 2023 Active Travel budget and resources to support uptake and implementation by local authorities, campuses and hospitals. [14443/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
With regard to the resources provided to Local Authorities to assist in the development and implementation of selected projects, my Department previously announced funding for up to 248 new posts in local authorities to expand walking and cycling facilities all over the country. Following discussions with local authorities and the National Transport Authority (NTA), I wrote to the County and City Management Association (CCMA) in January 2021 confirming an allocation of a higher figure of 282 posts around the country. This figure was subsequently revised once again in April 2021 to 320 posts, given the required increase in capacity particularly in local authorities outside the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and the regional cities which did not previously have an Active Travel Programme in place.
As of 1 March 2023, 241 of these positions have been filled in local authorities around the country. Recruitment has been slow due to a number of factors including shortages in the labour market, however my Department is monitoring this closely, together with the NTA. This significant increase in resourcing reflects the €1.8 billion in funding committed to 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.
Noting the NTA's role in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed reply in relation to the 2023 Active Travel budget uptake. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
