I propose to take Questions Nos. 1392 to 1394, inclusive, together.
While significant progress has been made under a number of objectives contained in the National Cycle Policy Framework (NCPF) it has not been possible for my Department, other Government departments and local authorities to deliver on many of the objectives due to the significant scaling back in overall public investment since the launch of the NCPF in 2009.
The NCPF has been integrated into the Development Plans of the majority of local authorities so ensuring that the objectives and policies to support and promote cycling are taken account of in current and future planning. In delivering cycling infrastructure all local authorities are currently requested to observe the guidance contained in the National Tranport Authority's on-line National Cycle Manual (www.cyclemanual.ie) and in particular the guidance underpinning this. Where projects are delivered in a rural setting reference should be made to the guidance set out in Transport Infrastructure Ireland's Rural Cycle Scheme Design (http://nrastandards.nra.ie/document/?id=239)
In 2013 and 2015 my Department requested local authorities and other stakeholders for an update on progress on implementation of the actions set out in the NCPF. The Department now intends to undertake a full review of the framework and we will be pursuing this this year.