Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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1575. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will increase funding for the segregation of cycle lanes from motor vehicle traffic in view of the rise in cycling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37858/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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Funding is allocated for cycling infrastructure and initiatives under a number of different programmes administered both directly by my Department and by the National Transport Authority.

Under the Sustainable Transport Measures Grants (STMG) Programme, my Department provides funding to the NTA for the seven local authorities in the Greater Dublin Area for the implementation of sustainable transport measures, including cycling and walking infrastructure. €19m has been allocated to this programme in 2017. A portion of these funds will be used for the further development of the cycle network in the Greater Dublin Area, with a portion also directed towards the provision of cycle parking. A further €9.1m has been allocated in 2017 to the Regional Cities of Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford, for works to help improve mobility in those cities. In addition, approximately €9m will be spent by my Department on Smarter Travelinitiatives.

Increasing the numbers of people cycling in Ireland is a priority for me since I recognise the contribution this can make in terms of tackling congestion. I am also keenly aware of the significant health benefits that are yielded when people adopt a more active lifestyle.

As part of the Mid-Term Review of the Capital Plan, I am seeking to increase the level of funding available for the delivery of cycling infrastructure. The proposed BusConnects programme, once rolled out, will also provide a significant amount of segregated cycling infrastructure in the coming years.