Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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190. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated cost of constructing one covered bike shelter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24910/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including some bike shelters.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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191. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of cycling officers employed in local authorities nationwide; the estimated cost of employing one cycling officer for one year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24911/20]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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In line with the objectives of the National Cycle Policy Frameworkmy Department works closely with local authorities in relation to relevant matters, particularly in relation to cycling promotional activities. This interaction involves working with a network of appropriate officials across all 31 local authorities in co-ordinating activities and allocating funding to support the local authorities' work in promoting Bike Week (which is underway this week) and other active travel activities. Arrangements for the formal designation of relevant officials within local authorities, including their grading and associated pay level, are primarily a matter for each of those organisations as the responsible employer.

More generally, the Deputy will be aware the Programme for Government – Our Shared Futurecalls for a fundamental change in the nature of transport in Ireland and commits to an increased multi-annual budgetary allocation of some €1.8 billion for active travel over the lifetime of the Government. Complementing that increased investment I also wish to see a renewed focus on active travel within local authorities, including the employment/recruitment of suitably qualified personnel to progress active travel work, and offering support to local authorities in the design of active travel infrastructure through the establishment of regional design offices.

I can advise the Deputy that my Department is currently developing proposals to deliver upon these specific commitments, as well as the other commitments contained within the new Programme for Government.