Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 105: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that Galway has been chosen as the pilot demonstration city or town for the transport sustainability measures proposed in Smarter Travel; if this decision is pending; the way or if there will be a nationwide competition for local authorities, transportation departments to win this funding; when the programme will commence in the chosen city or town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5820/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Action 44 of the new smarter travel policy framework, which I launched recently, outlines the Government's aim to establish and support a national competition to deliver outstanding examples of sustainable travel towns and rural areas.

It is my intention to pursue this initiative in 2009 and it will be an opportunity for local authorities to identify and put forward examples of transport sustainability best practice at local level.

At national level I first intend exploring the potential of a partnership between the Departments of Transport, Health and Children and Environment, Heritage and Local Government to support this initiative. I will publish the outline of the scheme after such preliminary work.

It follows, therefore, that no location has yet been chosen. In relation to Galway City, my Department has provided funding to support the operation of the Galway Transportation Unit. The purpose of the Unit is to develop and implement an Integrated Transport Solution for Galway City in accordance with best practice and the objectives outlined in Transport 21. My Department has agreed to cover half the cost of its operation for up to five years. I would expect that such planning will reflect the new smarter travel policy and that any plan will also be the result of very close liaison between both Galway City and County Councils.

In my opinion such integrated sustainable transport plans will be the ones most likely to attract future transport investment funding as it becomes available.