Cycling funding for Carrigaline
GREEN Party Chairman and Cork-based Senator Dan Boyle has welcomed today's announcement that Carrigaline is to receive €1.2 million for a new cycling and walking network.
The last census showed that almost three quarters of workers in Carrigaline commute by car, making it one of the most car-dependent areas in Ireland.
Senator Boyle said, "I'm delighted that this funding has been made available to Carrigaline to improve the area's cycle network and make a real difference to the transport options for workers, families and older persons.
"The Green Party has been working hard to ensure proper walking and cycling facilities are made available to people in their everyday lives and I hope this is the first in a long line of projects that will receive funding in the coming year.
"Local authorities must come up with comprehensive plans to improve the walking and cycling facilities in their areas to ensure proper funding can be provided.
"The Carrigaline project is a good example of where the local authority worked with the Department of Transport to secure the implementation of walking and cycling plans."
Senator Boyle said the Cycle to Work scheme, introduced by Green Party Leader John Gormley was being implemented by businesses across the country.
"This simple tax-relief scheme has resulted in a real increase in people choosing to cycle to work, with cycling shops noting a huge surge in bike sales," he concluded.
Local Fianna Fáil TD Michael McGrath also welcomed the announcement saying, "I am delighted that he has approved €1.2 million to develop a walking and cycling network which will link residential areas in Carrigaline to the local schools, local sports facilities, and employment centres".
Cork Politics July 8th
