Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 7 September 2026
369. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport to expedite the south Kerry Greenway, a lifeline and a gamechanger for County Kerry; to speed up outstanding payments and accommodation works for adjoining farmers/landowners; to introduce a sustainability payment or the equivalent of for all landowners adjacent to the Greenway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60712/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. To date, there has been a significant amount of investment for Greenway schemes in County Kerry, with €9,950,000 allocated in 2026 alone.
In relation to the South Kerry Greenway, 28% of landowners had been paid to end June 2026. It is expected that further claims will be settled by the end of 2026. Kerry County Council continue to work with landowners to advance and finalise the settlement of claims.
The Code of Practice for National and Regional Greenways includes information on the acquisition of private lands for developing Greenways and eligibility criteria for sustainability payments. The Code acknowledges the important role of farmers and landowners in the process. It outlines the procedures to ensure that they are treated fairly and equitably. TII are tasked with maintaining the Code of Best Practice for National and Regional Greenways.
Landowners on some greenway schemes are not eligible for Early Sign-on Payment part A of the Greenway Sustainability as the statutory consents granted preceded the introduction of the Code in January 2022. Additional proposals have been brought forward (by some landowners, farming organisations, and elected members) regarding providing a financial support similar to the ‘Early Sign-On Payment’ to these landowners.
While these fall outside the current Code of Best Practice, I am positively disposed to examining them further. Any such consideration will require careful assessment, this work has commenced and a decision will be made before year end.
