A huge national interest has been shown for greenways across the country, with 22 applicants vying for project funding.

The applications are from local authorities and state agencies.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross said: "It's heartening to see so many applications received today and the national interest in Greenways. I'd like thank the local authorities and state agencies for the hard work that has gone into preparing them. It is wonderful that people all over the country appreciate the enormous benefits that Greenways give to local communities through better health, sustainable transport, recreation and tourism.

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"There will be difficult decisions ahead given the high quality of the applications and the number of projects seeking funding but I look forward to being in a position to announce the successful projects next year.

"This is an opportunity to build on the success of the Waterford, Great Western and Old Rail Trail Greenways in the years ahead. By following the steps outlined in the Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Greenways we can look forward to new Greenways all around the country."

(CM)