Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 October 2012
69. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve the urban cycling experience in cities and urban areas throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45188/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government set out its commitment to invest in the National Cycle Policy in the Programme for Government. The greatest increase in cycling numbers will occur within urban areas as these trips are usually of a distance which lend themselves to cycling. My Department has taken a two-pronged approach to include investment and promotion to improving cycling. My Department works with the National Transport Authority (NTA) which provides funds to local authorities in the Greater Dublin Area and regional cities, while my Department provides direct funding to the other towns.
In addition to NTA funding, this year my Department announced investment in sustainable transport of €65 million over the next 5 years, the majority of which will be invested in cities and towns around the country under the Smarter Travel Areas and Active Travel Towns programmes. Cycling infrastructure and the promotion of cycling are key elements of each of these programmes. Funding is also being made available for the development of the National Cycle Network, to improve urban, interurban and rural cycling facilities.
The NTA has published a comprehensive design manual for the provision of cycle routes which is available at www.cyclemanual.ie. Dissemination of best practice and facilitation of appropriate cycle infrastructure design training are also key roles of the Smarter Travel Local Authority Network developed by my Department. My Department and the NTA are also committed to expanding the very successful Dublin Bikes scheme and to introduce similar schemes in regional cites.
