Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 October 2023
67. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Transport the number of schools nominated for round one, in March 2021, of the safe routes to school programme, funded by his Department, where works have completed; the number of schools in the same round where works have not been completed; when he anticipates the remaining works will be completed for round one of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42861/23]
View answerThe Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme was launched in March 2021 with the aim of supporting walking, scooting and cycling to primary and post-primary schools, and creating safer walking and cycling routes within communities, through the provision of infrastructure interventions. This should help alleviate congestion at school gates and increase the number of students who walk or cycle to school.
931 applications were received from schools across every county in Ireland. 170 schools were notified on 21st June 2021 that they were selected for inclusion in the first round of the SRTS Programme. Subsequently two schools have deferred their applications and one school has withdrawn, leaving 167 schools in Round 1. 108 schools were announced as part of Round 2 of the Programme in December 2022, totalling 275 schools now at varying stages of options development, design, planning, construction or completion.
It should be noted that all schools that applied to the original call for applications were accepted into the programme, and if not selected in Round 1 or Round 2 will be selected for forthcoming rounds.
According to the most recent report received from the NTA and An Taisce at the end of August 2023, a total of 23 projects have been completed at Round 1 schools in Clare, Cork, Dublin, Limerick, Monaghan and Waterford. 4 additional schools from outside Round 1 have also been completed. Many projects at other schools are at an advanced stage and will be completed in the coming months.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your specific questions relating to timelines for project completion under the Safe Routes to School programme to that agency for answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days please contact my private office.
