Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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11. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on a proposed project (details supplied); his views that this project has potential to unlock significant tourism sector employment opportunities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39055/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Under the National Cycle Network funding programme 2014-2016 Meath County Council submitted a proposal to my Department for the development of the Boyne Valley to Lakelands County Greenway.

While it was recognised that the proposal had considerable merit it was not possible to provide funding at that time given the number of applications received far exceeded the resources available.

I met with a delegation from Meath County Council earlier this year to discuss progress on this project since the application was submitted in 2013.  I was glad to learn that in the meantime the project team had progressed the detailed design and preparation of contract documents for the project while continuing to explore potential funding sources.

The cost of delivering the entire greenway is estimated to be in the region of €2.4 million.  I understand from my meeting with the council delegation that the project can be delivered in 2 phases - Phase 1 could run for a distance of 8km from the town park in Navan to Wilkinstown which would represent a valuable amenity in itself.

Phase 2 will run from Wilkinstown to Kingscourt.  Cavan County Council are also keen to commence this section of the greenway and the planning and design elements are at an advanced stage.

Given all Department funding for the purpose of delivering greenways is now fully committed up until 2016 I would urge the Council to continue to progress this project is so far as their own resources allow with a view to submitting an application to my Department under the next funding call which I would anticipate will be announced in 2016.

I would like to remind my colleague however that in light of my decision to pause planning for the Galway to Dublin greenway I have stated that construction will commence on the Meath and Kildare sections of that route in 2016. It is expected that this section will open in 2017 and a complete route from Maynooth to Athlone will provide a superb amenity for everyone to enjoy.