Garret Ahearn (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the presence of Senator Pauline O'Reilly in the role of Acting Leader. I have two questions, one of which is perfect for her and is right up her street. First, I acknowledge the decision by the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, last night and the work between him and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to lift that ban on burning. It is important and that work by the Minister should be acknowledged and appreciated.

Would it be possible to get a debate in the Seanad on cycleways and walkways and the amount of money the Minister for Transport has put towards them? I would like him to outline how this money will be spent over the next number of years and his vision of what this can do for the country. We have a beautiful blueway going from Clonmel to Carrick-on-Suir and because of the money the Minister has put in to design areas to expand it, it now looks like we will be able to expand the blueway onto the greenway in Waterford. That is a huge advantage the region and the area because we all know how well-known the greenway in Waterford is. To connect that to Clonmel, Cahir and the Rock of Cashel will bring huge added advantage. Such a debate would be an opportunity for the Minister to explain the opportunity this brings to regions like mine in Tipperary.

I also ask for an update on the sports capital grants and when they will be announced. I could list a range of clubs that need money but it would take some time.