Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2026
303. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason new schools being built without the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) initiative as standard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33283/26]
View answerThe Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme was launched in March 2021, with all primary and post-primary schools in Ireland invited to apply. The programme is an initiative of the Department of Transport, supported by my department, and is delivered by An Taisce in partnership with the National Transport Authority (NTA) and local authorities.
The programme aims to increase the number of pupils and students who walk, cycle or wheel to school.
One of the programme’s three aims is to increase the provision of cycle and scooter parking at schools. This aim is addressed through the design of new school buildings, in line with planning requirements.
The remaining aims relate to road, pedestrian and cycle infrastructure outside school grounds, including works in the immediate vicinity of schools and along routes linking residential areas. Responsibility for these works rests with local authorities and is guided by their local area plans and transport and mobility strategies.
Most new schools are now delivered in urban areas on sites identified by local authorities through their local area planning processes. My department works closely with local authorities in identifying and securing these sites. However, individual school sites form only one element of the wider development of sustainable communities. The delivery and funding of transport infrastructure within new and expanding communities does not fall within my department’s remit.
