Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
269. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the funding provided for footpaths to each of the 31 local authorities in each of the past five years; the distance of footpaths covered with this funding in each local authority, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37406/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
Investment in Active Travel infrastructure has increased significantly in recent years, with around €290 million allocated to the NTA this year alone for the delivery of new footpaths and cycle lanes and the protection and renewal of existing active travel infrastructure.
While funding for the maintenance of active travel infrastructure, which is a current funding stream, was not secured in Budget 2025 due to a high level of competing demands both within the Department of Transport and across Government, Department officials are working to identify alternative funding streams which could be utilised for this important purpose and will continue to seek funding as part of the annual estimates process.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
Separately, while my Department provides grant support for road maintenance and renewal programmes under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme it does not have a specific grant programme for the restoration and repair of footpaths; however, local authorities have the option to fund these types of works from certain grant programmes.
