Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 162: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the strategy for designing off-road cycle tracks; the bodies and functionaries that determine the locations of such tracks, and to list all proposed tracks with each relevant status; if he will indicate the body or functionary whose responsibility it is to ensure that the routes chosen are fully implemented; if he will provide an update on the national off-road cycling strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24378/11]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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In accordance with the Programme for Government, I am investing in the National Cycle Policy which calls for a wide programme of action including publicity, education, development of a national cycle network; investment in cycling infrastructure and demonstration projects, including off-road cycle tracks in rural locations; legislative change; improved enforcement of traffic laws and support for sports cycling.

In terms of the development of a national cycle network, the National Roads Authority completed a scoping study for a network in 2010. This study is available from www.smartertravel.ie and identifies potential route corridors, although not actual routes, between urban areas with a population of 10,000 or more that could constitute a national cycle network. Following completion of the study, the Department tasked the National Roads Authority to conduct a feasibility study of the route from Dublin to Galway and onto Clifden.

Side by side with the work of the National Roads Authority, it is a matter for local authorities to identify, design and deliver, as individual demonstration projects, off-road cycling trails in rural locations that can form part of the network. My Department provided significant financial support for the completion of the Great Western Greenway in Mayo and the Carrigaline to Crosshaven route in Cork and has committed finance to the Fenit to Tralee route in Kerry and elements of the Great Southern Trail in Limerick. My Department is aware of work carried out on a possible route in the Boyne Valley. It is the case that the success of the Great Western Greenway has generated a desire among other local authorities to deliver such projects.

I am keen, though bearing in mind current financial constraints and the forthcoming findings of the comprehensive expenditure review, to support off-road cycling projects as part of a wide programme of action on cycling matters.