I propose to take Questions Nos. 492 and 493 together.
My Department has provided funding to a number of local authorities under the three Smarter Travel Programmes currently underway. The National Cycle Network and Active Travel Towns programmes will be completed at end 2016 with the Smarter Travel Demonstration areas programme finishing in 2017. At present I cannot say how future smarter travel funding will be directed only that efforts will continue to be made by my Department to support initiatives which increase walking, cycling and public transport as sustainable modes of transport.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is the body responsible for the administration and expansion of the Dublin public bikes scheme in cooperation with the relevant local authority. Given the success of the scheme to date I am confident that the range of the service will be expanded over time as funding becomes available. The timing and sequencing of expansion will be a decision for the NTA in conjunction with the local authorities.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities in relation to the administration of the Dublin public bikes scheme, I have forwarded your query to the NTA for attention and direct response to you. If you have not received a reply within 10 working days please contact my office.