As Minister I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. The planning, design and construction of individual Greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
As stated in the Strategy of the Future Development of National and Regional Greenways, a Dublin to Galway Greenway "has the potential to be a National Greenway of scale and international appeal". This summer saw the opening of a new cycling and pedestrian bridge over the Shannon at Athlone which completes the Maynooth to Athlone section of this important project.
I am aware of recent media reportage of the Athlone to Galway section of the Greenway which is currently at design and environmental evaluation stage. In light of TII’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to TII for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.