Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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329. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider establishing a dedicated fund for local authorities to maintain and upkeep the expanding active travel network in view of growing national investment by the NTA in active travel infrastructure and updated design guidelines promoting cycling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61653/25]

Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail)
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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. While the provision of new infrastructure is a priority in order to encourage modal shift away from private car use and towards active travel, it is essential that such infrastructure is maintained to a level where it is both attractive and, most importantly, safe to use.

While funding for the maintenance of active travel infrastructure, which is a current funding stream, was not secured in Budget 2026 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.