Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 154: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will seek an explanation from the Dublin Transportation Office for the reason a cycle track design guidance manual for local authorities and developers has not been completed; when he expects same to be completed; if he has satisfied himself that the level of funding granted by his Department is sufficient for the Dublin Transportation Office to meet its demands. [24230/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The DTO National Urban Cycle Facilities Manual (published in 1997) provides guidance on the design of cycle facilities in Ireland. It is available on the DTO website (www.dto.ie). This manual is supplemented by the DTO Traffic Management Manual, published in September 2003. Following an earlier review of the cycle manual, preparatory material has been collated for a new Cycle Facilities Manual, including new design, improved readability and layout and additional design information. I understand from the DTO that the Manual will be issued shortly in draft form for consultation, with a view to issuing a final draft in September 2006, and completion before the end of 2006.

With regard to the issue of funding, the DTO administers the Traffic Management Grants (TMG) scheme in support of the implementation of its transportation strategy for the Greater Dublin Area. From the Transport 21 funding envelope, my Department has made €40 million available to the grant scheme this year, with a provision for additional funding, if required. I understand that the DTO Traffic Management Grants (TMG) Committee, which administers the scheme on behalf of the DTO Steering Group, recently decided that the original amount of €40 million will adequately meet the need to fund current year traffic management projects within the Greater Dublin Area. The rate of deployment of funds and completion of projects will continue to be monitored throughout the year, and if additional worthwhile projects are generated, the TMG Committee will review its decision in relation to funding needs.