Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

303. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a detailed breakdown, by county, of the funding allocated to local authorities for footpath repairs for 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29296/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.

Investment in Active Travel infrastructure has increased significantly in recent years, with around €290 million allocated to the NTA for such projects this year alone. Just under €40 million was earmarked at the start of 2025 for protection and renewal of existing active travel infrastructure such as footpaths and cycle lanes.

While funding for the maintenance of active travel infrastructure, which is a current funding stream, was not secured in Budget 2025 due to a high level of competing demands both within the Department of Transport and across Government, Department officials are working to identify alternative funding streams which could be utilised for this important purpose and will continue to seek funding as part of the annual estimates process.

Separately, while my Department provides grant support for road maintenance and renewal programmes under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme it does not have a specific grant programme for the restoration and repair of footpaths; however, local authorities have the option to fund these types of works from certain grant programmes.

Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.