Anthony Lawlor (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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648. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the National Transport Authority funding for County Kildare will remain at the same level as in previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45047/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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​As the Deputy will be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA), which has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), recently published a draft Transport Strategy for the GDA for the period 2016-2035. The draft Strategy provides a framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the GDA for the next two decades, including two transport corridors serving North Kildare. A public consultation was recently undertaken by the NTA on the draft Strategy.

The long term strategy includes proposals for the expansion of Dart services to Celbridge/Hazelhatch and other measures along the Kildare corridors. Delivery of projects prioritised in the final GDA Strategy will be dependent on the availability of funding under the next capital plan post-2022, including from non-Exchequer sources. 

Additionally, the NTA's Sustainable Grants Programme supports and provides funding to the local authorities in the GDA, including Kildare County Council, for a wide range of projects that support the development and implementation of sustainable transport modes such as cycling, walking and public transport. 

Given the NTA's responsibility with regards to this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply in relation to funding levels in Co. Kildare.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.