Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017
783. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which each of the 49 actions as outlined in the smarter travel policy has been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10291/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe overarching goals contained in the Smarter Travel Policy 2009-2020 remain the cornerstone of our transport policy. This is recognised and reflected in the Programme for Partnership Government where we commit to ensuring that the €3.6 billion investment in the public transport system provided for in the present Capital Plan will uphold the principles of Smarter Travel. The Capital Plan also specifically commits €100m in funding for smarter travel and carbon reduction measures.
The Deputy will recall that the precise targets set out in the Smarter Travel policy were largely predicated on the availability of the substantial funding which was planned under the Transport 21 capital investment plan but which, in the event, did not transpire because of the significant scaling back in overall public investment in response to the economic and fiscal crises. Nevertheless, despite the considerable progress has been made and continues to be made in encouraging people to use public transport and more sustainable forms of transport. For example, the most recent Canal Cordon Report revealed a significant increase in the numbers cycling and walking into Dublin City Centre. The Report indicates that over two thirds of people coming into Dublin in the morning peak period are now using sustainable transport modes.
My Department intends to undertake a review of the Smarter Travel policy this year. This will establish in a comprehensive manner the extent to which each of the actions set out in the policy statement have been implemented. The detailed information sought by the Deputy in this regard will be available on completion of that work.
