Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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493. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to establish a dedicated cycling unit in his Department; and if a national cycling officer has been appointed to date. [17701/19]

Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent)
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The Deputy is presumably aware that there already exists a Division within my Department that deals with cycling related matters. Obviously given the multifaceted nature of these matters it is the case that the Division works with other Departmental and Government colleagues on issues which require such cross-,and/or inter-, Departmental input.

In relation to the issue of a national cycling officer I have previously announced that I have requested the National Transport Authority (NTA) to establish a new Cycling Delivery Office which will focus on the timely delivery of cycling infrastructure in line with the increased levels of funding available. This new Office will be established this year and will, I believe, be of significant benefit in delivering improved cycling infrastructure.