Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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584. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the development of a national walking policy based on the recommendation in Smarter Travel: A Sustainable Transport Future A New Transport Policy for Ireland 2009 to 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41570/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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The delivery of a sustainable and low carbon transport system for Ireland is an important priority for the Government. "Smarter Travel – A Sustainable Transport Future" lays the policy foundation for achieving that priority.

In creating a culture of walking in Ireland it is important to ensure that walking is a safe and pleasant experience. There is a strong convergence between walking and cycling as alternative and sustainable transport modes. Accordingly, funding resources are aimed at progressing both walking and cycling as means of everyday transport for leisure and commuting.

While my Department is responsible for policy on sustainable transport, delivery of smarter travel programmes is shared by the National Transport Authority (NTA) and my Department. The NTA has provided best practice guidance on how to facilitate demand for walking and cycling in built-up areas. The guidance emphasises the importance of suitable link routes within the urban environment that would allow people to walk from their homes to shops, schools, local services, places of work and public transport stops and stations.

This guidance also assists Local Authorities to draw on the principles of best practice for walking and encourages the transformation of neighbourhoods through providing appropriately designed, safe, well lit facilities where people can walk easily and safely.