Senator Pauline O’Reilly announced today that Minister Eamon Ryan has given the NTA an additional €130 million this year, bringing the total to €240 million to support sustainable transport projects across the country. “This will set in motion the Salthill to Barna and Moycullen to Galway greenways, which is key for the Green Party. Commuter cycling projects are also being funded for Ballyloughane and the overall cycling network in the East and City centre. Safe routes to schools will also be funded.
Senator O’Reilly went on to say that “The way to turn the corner on the climate crisis is to invest in alternatives. That’s why we went into government. I believe the lives of our citizens can be made better through healthier choices. Don’t we all want our children to be able to safely walk and cycle to school? We can create investment opportunities for Galway through a proper public transport network to ensure that businesses want to move here.”
Commenting on today’s announcement Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD said:
“Today’s allocation increase marks a huge step forward in providing green sustainable mobility options to our cities, suburbs and hinterlands.
During COVID we’ve reconnected with our local areas and can all see why and where improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure are needed.
The projects that the NTA are funding will make a real difference to commuters and leisure seekers alike. Improving infrastructure for cycling and walking will make our cities, towns and villages more accessible and attractive for everyone. That’s good news for communities, and good news for the economy.
I look forward to seeing and hopefully using the different projects that will be progressing in the months and years to come.”
The NTA will be tasked with overseeing and supporting the development of the high-quality mobility infrastructure across all projects. The state agency will also ensure that projects are accessible, age-friendly and maximise comfort to people of all ages and abilities.