Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank both Deputies. The evidence is clear. An excessive number of trips to and around schools will have an impact on overall air quality. The science is clear on that. That is why we have to work with communities and partner with them to provide safe routes to schools. We must provide a safe alternative for families and children. If we look at the last 30 years, we are all aware of the data from the Central Statistics Office, CSO, showing that we had a very positive story to tell in the 1970s and the 1980s when it came to active travel and schools. I met the Safe Routes to School team and I know the Minister met it recently as well. We are seeing positive indications regarding the numbers of trips.

The infrastructure and the delivery of it will make a big impact on increasing the opportunities for active travel for children, but also on improving air quality around schools, both of which are issues the Deputy referenced.

On the wider issue with the EPA, access to data and the microanalysis of that, I will ask the officials in the Department to engage with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications on it. I appreciate the Deputy raising it.

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