Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent)
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918. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the measures he plans to take to improve the protection of cyclists on roads and streets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1101/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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As the Deputy may be aware I have secured significant improved funding allocations over the period 2018-2021 which will benefit and protect both cyclists and walkers.

These improved allocations over this period include:

- €110 million specifically dedicated to cycling and walking infrastructure in our major urban areas;

- €135 million for sustainable urban transport measures;

- €750 million towards the BusConnects programme in Dublin which will include the delivery of around 200 kilometres of segregated cycling lanes, where possible; and

- €53 million to support the development of new Greenways.

In addition to the above, Government has also made additional money available for cycling projects through both the Urban and Rural Regeneration and Development Funds under the National Development Plan.

The impact of this improved funding is evidenced by the approximate 30% increase to be provided in 2019 under my Department's ‘cycling and walking’ and ‘sustainable urban transport’ programmes as compared to 2018's expenditure.

The Deputy will also be aware that I have requested the National Transport Authority establish a new Cycling Delivery Office this year in order to optimise delivery of new cycling infrastructure in line with the significantly increased funding that is being provided.

I am also delighted to say that a number of significant cycling projects will commence work across the Greater Dublin Area and beyond in 2019 which will be of great benefit, once completed, to the increasing numbers of people who choose cycling as their preferred mode of transport.

As well as these infrastructure improvements, the increased funding I am making available will also allow for the expansion of the Cycle Right training programme in primary schools with an additional 5,000 school children expected to take part as compared to 2018. While other behavioural change programmes, such as Green Schools and Workplace and Campus Smarter Travel, will continue to be funded in line with commitments.

Furthermore my Department is in constant communication with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) about matters of safety. The RSA’s ‘Cycle Smart, Cycle Safe’ campaign directly addressed safety issues for cyclists, while a recent TV led campaign calls on motorists to keep a safe distance when overtaking cyclists on urban and rural roads.

In the area of legislation, I have brought through a number of proposals such as the Road Safety Act 2016 which allows for 20 km/h speed limits to be set by local authorities in residential areas. My Department is proposing to build on the existing legislation in relation to dangerous overtaking which will, in particular, specifically target those drivers who put cyclists at risk.

I believe that the measures and the multi-annual capital expenditure programmes outlined above will positively assist with the better development and provision of cycling infrastructure across the State while improving the safety for all road users.