Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 June 2025
259. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Transport whether NTA embedded staff are required to comply with local authority planning policies; whether any guidelines exist to govern oversight and accountability of these activities by elected members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31634/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall funding and policy decisions 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, including the development of walking and cycling infrastructure.
With regard to Active Travel staffing within Local Authorities, sanction was given in 2021 for around 320 dedicated Active Travel staff to be recruited by Local Authorities. While there is an agreement between my Department, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Local Government Management Agency that the NTA provide funding for Active Travel personnel, these positions are recruited and employed by Local Authorities.
As Local Authority employed personnel, they would be required to comply with Local Authority planning policies and act within any guidelines which exist to govern oversight and accountability of these activities.
