Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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574. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of a greenway (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42226/17]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The extension of the Great Southern Trail to Tralee is a matter for Kerry County Council. Accordingly, the Council would be better placed to update the Deputy on progress.

I understand that Limerick County Council is also working on improving the quality of the Great Southern Trail and is also seeking to extend the route to Limerick City.

The Deputy may be aware that my Department recently undertook a public consultation process to inform the development of a new Greenways Strategy. My officials are currently reviewing the many submissions received from both citizens and stakeholders including those expressing support for the extension of the Great Southern Trail to Tralee. My Department is aiming to have the new Strategy completed by the end of the year. Following completion, it is expected that a new round of funding for greenway infrastructure will be announced.

It is important that local authorities progress work in advance of this funding round as I anticipate that those projects that have feasibility, planning and design work completed will be in a better position to attract funding than those that do not.