Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 September 2025
106. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the steps he will take to ensure that there are no disimprovements to bus services as a result of the launch of Phase 7 of Bus Connects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51683/25]
View answerI thank the Deputy for his question and like him I welcome the largest ever investment in our bus network and services, which is what we are delivering under BusConnects Dublin and what will be delivered under BusConnects in each of the four other cities as well.
This is a transformational step change in the way bus services are delivered in Ireland and one that has been subject to the one of the most extensive public consultations ever. But it is a transformation, not a continuation of business as usual, and services are changing, bus fleets are changing and ticketing and infrastructure will change as part of it too.
The good news is that the people using this improved bus system are responding positively to that transformation, numbers on the new BusConnects services are well ahead of the older services as improved frequency and new routes provides better connections than ever before.
The launch of Phase 7 of the BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign next month is another significant milestone in the delivery of the wider BusConnects programme. This new F-Spine will connect Finglas and Tallaght through the City Centre, and will continue the positive progress seen elsewhere. I am confident that the new F-Spine will benefit people in the City Centre and suburbs across its route including in Ballymun, Finglas, Glasnevin, Marino, Broombridge, Kimmage, Walkinstown, Templeogue, Rathmines and Tallaght. The implementation of these changes will be closely monitored by the NTA, in co-operation with the operators, to ensure the roll-out brings with it the benefits assumed and I can assure the Deputy that I will keep in close contact with the NTA on the matter.
The roll-out of the remaining phases of the BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign will occur over the coming years, subject to funding and operational readiness. I look forward to his support as we continue delivery of the BusConnects programme.
