Ministers Ross and Griffin welcome €2.7 billion allocation for Transport, Tourism and Sport in Budget 2020
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross T.D., and Minister of State, Brendan Griffin T.D. have today welcomed the overall allocation of €2.7 billion next year for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.
Speaking at today’s press conference, Minister Ross stated: “This year’s budget posed a significant challenge in safeguarding our economy against the effects of a no-deal Brexit. Under these trying circumstances I am very pleased to be in a position to announce a 16.5% increase in the overall budget allocation to my department. This allocation will provide the necessary resources to continue stable investment in our transport system, continue to develop our sport sector, and support our tourism sector particularly with regard to mitigating the potential impacts of a hard Brexit.
Over recent years the Government has worked hard to ensure that conditions and policies are in place to tackle climate change and support citizens in making more sustainable transport choices. In 2020, investment in the public transport system will now exceed €1 billion for the first time. This will support a wide range of transport projects, including progressing major infrastructure investments as part of BusConnects and Metrolink, continuing to improve our rail services nationwide, and supporting the phased transition of our transport fleet to more environmentally friendly fuel types.
I also welcome the commitment made by Minister Donohoe to ring fence funds raised by the carbon tax to support our Climate Action Plan. This commitment will bring an additional €10.5 million for investment in greenways, urban cycling infrastructure and increased investment in recharging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
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