Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
334. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport the number of schools enrolled in the safe routes to school in 2024, 2025 and to date in 2026; the number of schools waiting to be enrolled; the breakdown of the number of schools enrolled in the programme by each county council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14809/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra335. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport the level of funding that has been allocated to the safe routes to school programme in 2025 and to date in 2026; the number of schools that are availing of the fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14810/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 334 and 335 together.
The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme was launched in March 2021 with the aim of supporting walking, scooting, and cycling to primary and post-primary schools, and creating safer walking and cycling routes within communities, through the provision of infrastructure interventions including, in some cases, School Zones.
These projects should help alleviate congestion at school gates and increase the number of students who walk or cycle to school. The Safe Routes to School Programme is funded by my Department through the National Transport Authority (NTA) and An Taisce's Green Schools is co-ordinating the programme.
Invitations to express interest were sent to all primary and secondary schools in the country, and 932 applications were received from schools across every county in Ireland. Schools are processed in tranches, with four rounds having been announced to date. It should be noted that all schools that applied to the original call for applications were accepted into the programme, and if not selected in the rounds to date will be selected in forthcoming rounds.
Noting the role of the NTA in the SRTS programme, I have referred your questions to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
