Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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29. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress to date on the development of the section of the inter-urban greenway between Athlone and Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31921/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​As the Deputy will be aware, a structured consultation process is ongoing between representatives of the project team tasked with the delivery of the Western section of the Dublin to Galway Greenway and landowners affected by the current preferred route.  The consultation process is being led by representatives of Galway County Council and I am expecting a report on this process to be submitted to me by the end of September.  I hope that some resolution can be found around the issues that are concerning a number of the affected landowners.   

In pursuing this project, the Department is seeking to create a valuable tourism and leisure product, one that is likely to bring significant benefit to all members of the community along the route.  The objective of the consultation is to achieve consensus around addressing the concerns of affected landowners and the wider farming community.

Once I have received the report, I will consider the associated findings and, together with my officials, we will ascertain if there is indeed potential for developing the remainder of the greenway to Galway.  I will communicate the findings to you and other local representatives in due course.