Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party)
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214.To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of schools nominated for rounds one and two of the safe routes to school programme funded by his Department where works have been completed as of June 2024; the number of schools in those rounds where works have not been completed; when the remaining works will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31965/24]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme was launched in March 2021 with the aim of supporting walking, scooting, and cycling to primary and post-primary schools, and creating safer walking and cycling routes within communities, through the provision of infrastructure interventions. This should help alleviate congestion at school gates and increase the number of students who walk or cycle to school. The Safe Routes to School Programme is funded by my Department through the National Transport Authority and An Taisce's Green Schools is co-ordinating the programme.

Invitations to express interest were sent to all primary and secondary schools in the country, and 931 applications were received from schools across every county in Ireland. 170 schools were notified on 21st June 2021 that they were selected for inclusion in the first round of the SRTS Programme with 1 school subsequently withdrawing, while a further 108 schools were announced for Round 2 in December 2022. It should be noted that all schools that applied to the original call for applications were accepted into the programme, and if not selected in Rounds 1 and 2 will be selected for forthcoming rounds.

Of the 275 schools currently active in Rounds 1 and 2, latest figures show that 66 projects have been completed as of end June 2024. Noting the role of the NTA in the programme, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer in relation to timeline for completion of outstanding school projects. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.