Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
284. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding planned active travel (cycling and walking infrastructure) improvements in towns and villages in County Laois; the timeline and budgetary measures allocated for these works in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3150/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel infrastructure. The National Transport Authority (NTA) along with the relevant local authorities are responsible for the development and delivery of individual projects.
In general, the main focus of active travel investment will be to support high quality walking and cycling infrastructure, for everyday trips, in villages, towns and cities, particularly in designated growth settlements, with a view to promoting the greatest potential modal shift to active travel.
Given the ramping up of activities over the last few years in the Active Travel area, the number of projects being progressed now exceeds the level of funding made available to the NTA. Accordingly, the NTA is unable to fully fund all proposed Active Travel projects and has to prioritise certain projects over others in order to remain within its allocated budget. While a project may not be selected by the NTA for funding in a particular year, it may be funded in subsequent years.
Of the 2025 funding, Laois County Council received €3 million. As part of the allocations determination, the NTA liaises with each local authority to fully understand the projects being proposed by the local authority and its considerations in terms of priorities.
I was delighted to secure a similar funding for Active Travel in Budget 2026, meaning that we can continue to progress walking and cycling projects around Ireland into this year. Local authority funding allocations for 2026 are due to be announced in the coming days.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question in relation to planned active travel improvements in Laois to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
