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Tuesday, 18 Nov 2025

Written Answers Nos. 286-306

Bus Services

Questions (286)

Paul McAuliffe

Question:

286. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the ‘F Spine’ and Phase 7 of the Bus Connects programme following its recent implementation in Dublin North West; if the National Transport Authority (NTA), under his Department and Dublin Bus, as the service provider, are aware of the ongoing issues faced by constituents in Dublin North West; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63316/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this case, Dublin Bus.

The NTA have advised that in advance of these new routes being implemented under the Phase 7 rollout, they distributed over 200,000 booklets to households across all the areas covered by the routes. They also advertised the new services in local media outlets and online, and they provided detailed briefings to local public representatives, and remain open to improving the communications around the rollout of the Network Redesign (NRD) phases and to that end will take on board any feedback received from customers.

It should be noted that the F-Spine, which is part of the BusConnects Dublin area NRD was finalised following three rounds of public consultations which culminated in over 72,000 submissions being received. The overall network represents a major investment in enhanced bus services, delivering a 35% increase in annual “in-service” kilometres, a significant increase in overall capacity and frequency for customers, as well as more evening and weekend services.

It is of course acknowledged that these changes require some passengers to make their journey in a different way. In some instances, people who previously had to interchange will now have a direct service, while others may now have to interchange where previously they did not.

For those who have to change, the process is made as straightforward as possible and thanks to the TFI-90 fare, there is no additional cost. The transport operators and NTA are working hard to ensure that the services are bedding in well, but understand that it can take some time for people to get accustomed to any new arrangement.

The kind of issues experienced at the launch of Phase 7 are similar to those experienced in the early stages of implementation of previous phases of Network Redesign that were addressed and resolved. Notwithstanding teething issues, it’s worth noting that for previous phases in all instances, the changes have resulted in significant increase in passenger numbers.

Customer satisfaction surveys conducted after the initial launch period of the new bus services have consistently shown positive results. Although some expectations may not have been fully met during the first week of operation, these services, including Phase 7, are expected to achieve long-term success.

BusConnects has already achieved significant success in transforming Dublin’s public transport network. In the latest progress report, published in March 2025, BusConnects Dublin Programme has shown significant improvements in key performance indicators. There has been an annualized increase of 9.35 million, or 71%, in scheduled service kilometres in the NRD Phases 1-5b compared to equivalent routes operating prior to the NRD Project.

The NTA have advised they will continue to monitor things very closely in the days and weeks ahead, collaborating with operators and customers to enhance the punctuality and reliability of services throughout the Network Redesign.

Road Projects

Questions (287)

Conor D. McGuinness

Question:

287. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport for an update on safety measures and upgrades planned for the N25 in Waterford and Kilkenny. [63350/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on in relation to the N25.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Bus Services

Questions (288)

Conor D. McGuinness

Question:

288. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport if recently announced bus stop closures on the N25 in west Waterford will be reversed; and if alternative arrangements will be made for rural commuters. [63351/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stops/shelters.

There is a commitment under the Programme for Government to ensure that public transport operators provide safe and accessible access for all passengers and a commitment to work with local authorities and national bodies to improve public transport options and infrastructure.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.

Active Travel

Questions (289)

Emer Currie

Question:

289. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the achievement of the target for a 50% increase in daily active travel journeys; and to provide a breakdown of the increase by different modes of active travel. [63449/25]

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Written answers

The National Sustainable Mobility Policy (SMP) was published in April 2022. At the time of publication, the Policy sought to support the achievement of targets set out in Climate Action Plan 2021 (CAP21), namely at least 500,000 additional daily active travel and public transport journeys by 2030 and a 10% reduction in the number of kilometres driven by fossil-fuelled cars.

It was noted in the SMP that those targets might be subject to revision in later iterations of the Climate Action Plan once agreement had been reached on the Sectoral Emissions Ceilings (SECs). This subsequently occurred with the publication of Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23), which was developed after the agreement on the SECs, and following a recalibration exercise carried out using the NTA’s Regional Modelling System to identify a series of measures that could collectively achieve a 50% reduction in carbon emissions in the transport sector by 2030. These updated Climate Action Plan 2023 targets include a 50% increase in daily active travel journeys.

In terms of Active Travel journeys, the primary source of data available is through the National Household Travel Survey which is carried out on an annual basis. As such, the most effective means of measuring progress in delivering this target is through measuring the increase in mode share for active travel journeys. It has been calculated that it will be necessary to reach a mode share of 28% of journeys taking place through active means by 2030 in order to achieve the target of a 50% increase in daily active travel journeys. The NHTS showed that the mode share in 2024 was 20%. (Walking 18%, Cycling 2%).

Electric Vehicles

Questions (290)

Emer Currie

Question:

290. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the review of EV grants, including the prospect of extending grants to car-share and car rental operators; and the timeframe for finalisation and publication of the review. [63454/25]

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Written answers

The Government is fully committed to supporting the transition to zero-emission transport and the ambitious target to have 30% of private car fleet switched to electric by 2030.

Over €100m has been allocated in 2025 to support the continued transition to electric vehicles which includes funding for EV grants and EV charging infrastructure.

There is a suite of incentives in place from Zero Emission Vehicle Ireland, and where applicable with support from taxation incentives through the Department of Finance, to support the continued transition to EVs and for the rollout of EV charging infrastructure, including:

•A purchase grant for battery electric vehicles (BEVs);

•A Home Charger purchase grant scheme;

•VRT relief of up to €5,000 for the purchase of BEVs;

•The eSPSV grant scheme for taxi drivers to make the switch to an EV, including wheelchair accessible vehicles;

•ZEHDV grant scheme – a grant for HDVs to bridge the gap between a low emission vehicle and a fossil fuel vehicle; and

•Low rate of annual motor tax.

As set out in the Programme for Government, I am currently undertaking a comprehensive review of the existing electric vehicle (EV) grant framework, alongside the potential introduction of targeted new incentives. This work is being guided by our overarching commitment to accelerating the transition to cleaner transport, increasing the uptake of EVs, and phasing out older, high-emission vehicles. It is important to emphasise, however, that any decisions regarding financial supports must be made in the context of broader fiscal sustainability and the need to maximise environmental and societal impact.

The Government remains firmly committed to creating the conditions necessary for widespread EV adoption. This includes ensuring that our national charging infrastructure keeps pace with demand and that access to EVs is both equitable and achievable. We will continue to pursue a balanced and evidence-based approach, one that is ambitious in its climate objectives, yet grounded in deliverability and value for money.

Bus Services

Questions (291)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

291. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport to provide the up-to-date position on commencement of the new 256 bus route to service Macroom, Inchigeelagh, Ballingeary, Kealkill and Bantry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63448/25]

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Written answers

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Electric Vehicles

Questions (292)

John Paul O'Shea

Question:

292. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport if he is in agreement with the previous Government's stated position on the need for an EU legislative proposal on greening corporate fleets, as per the letter signed by former Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan, on 7 October 2024; if his Department has carried out any assessment on the impact that EV fleet mandates will have on the car rental sector and rural and regional tourism; if the previous Government's position on this matter aligns with the current Programme for Government and the upcoming tourism strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63523/25]

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Written answers

The Government remains firmly committed to accelerating fleet electrification, both private and corporate, as part of our broader climate objectives. Under the Climate Action Plan 2023, Ireland has set an ambitious target for 30% of the private car fleet to be electric by 2030. Delivering a sustainable, low-carbon transport system is a core priority for the Department. Fleet electrification is one of the two largest mitigation actions for domestic sectors and will deliver the greatest share of transport emissions reductions by 2030.

Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI), an office within the Department of Transport, is committed to creating the conditions necessary for widespread EV adoption. The public charging network has grown in recent years and the new Programme for Government includes further significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network so that drivers nationwide can use their EVs with confidence and certainty.

Local Authorities are actively developing their own regional charging plans to meet the various needs of users at the local level. ZEVI are further facilitating extensive engagement with Failte Ireland, the Car Rental Council and the Irish Hotel Federation, to identify the level of seasonal demand associated with the tourism sector regionally.

The Greening Corporate Fleets initiative originates from the European Commission’s Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy (December 2020), which committed to “a comprehensive policy of actions to boost the uptake of zero-emission vehicles in corporate and urban fleets.”

In October 2024, Ireland joined a small group of like-minded Member States in writing to President von der Leyen at Ministerial level, urging the Commission to take action on corporate fleets. The Government strongly supports EU intervention to help achieve its 2030 EV targets and beyond.

The Commission’s legislative proposal is expected by the end of 2025. Once the proposal is published, My Department will work to assess how the proposal will affect Irish businesses, in terms of the number and type of companies within scope of the proposal. We will also give consideration, in due course, to whether our existing supports for EV take-up need to be adjusted to better complement an EU Regulation.

Driver Licences

Questions (293)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

293. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that there are persons who drive tractors only, that can no longer get insurance as they do not have a valid driver number; the steps a person can take to have a tractor licence without take a driving test for a car; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63556/25]

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Written answers

I wish to advise that, under section 56A of the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, a person must provide to the insurer or intermediary their Irish driving licence or learner permit driver number or, for a foreign driving licence, the driver number, licence number or unique identifier, when seeking insurance.

The steps to obtain a tractor licence (category W, work vehicles and tractors), for an applicant aged 16 or above, are as follows.

1) Sit and pass the theory test in category B & W.

2) Apply for a learner permit in category W within 2 years of passing the theory test.

3) Make an application for a driving test in category W.

Further information is laid out on the RSA’s website at www.rsa.ie/services/learner-drivers/get-qualified/work-vehicles-and-tractors.

Public Transport

Questions (294)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

294. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if there are provisions to address the requirement for individuals with additional accessibility needs, such as wheelchair users, to have to ring a minimum of one hour in advance and up to a maximum of 12 hours in advance to use Irish Rail and Luas services (details supplied). [63559/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.

From a policy perspective, I met with members of the disability sector on 29 September 2025 for a constructive dialogue around our shared ambition to ensure 100% transport accessibility in Ireland. The Government launched the National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People on 3rd September 2025. In line with the United Nation Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the strategy puts great importance on engagement with disabled people. Pillar 5 of the strategy, 'Transport and Mobility' contains a number of transport priority actions. I really welcomed the opportunity to hear views on transport accessibility and the new strategy’s actions. It was a valuable and rewarding exchange with Disabled Person Organisations, service providers, Disability User Groups, and board representatives from transport operators.

Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for promoting the development of integrated, accessible public transport networks and infrastructure. The NTA works with the relevant public transport operators, for example Irish Rail, who have responsibility for day to day operational issues, to progressively make public transport more accessible.

In light of Irish Rail and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) having responsibilities for rail and light rail (Luas) services respectively, I have referred your question to the both companies for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

Bus Services

Questions (295)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

295. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if issues in relation to the 40E bus route will be addressed (details supplied). [63560/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this case Dublin Bus.

I can assure you that my Department is committed to providing investment in our public transport network and that I am supportive of the Governments goals in delivering an accessible, affordable and reliable public transport network throughout the country.

In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's question toDublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Bus Services

Questions (296)

Paul Donnelly

Question:

296. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to add an extra bus for students in the Dublin 15 area travelling to Dunboyne College on the 270 bus route (details supplied). [63561/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators, in this case Dublin Bus.

I can assure you that my Department is committed to providing investment in our public transport network and that I am supportive of the Governments goals in delivering an accessible, affordable and reliable public transport network throughout the country.

In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.

Road Safety

Questions (297)

Cathal Crowe

Question:

297. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if his Department and Transport Infrastructure Ireland will conduct an examination of an area (details supplied) to determine if the area will be considered an accident blackspot and resultingly if traffic calming measures can be implemented in the interest of road safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63563/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you in relation to the N68 at Darragh, Co. Clare.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.

Road Safety

Questions (298, 299)

Emer Currie

Question:

298. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department is considering introducing legislation to prohibit e-scooter users from wearing non-high-visibility clothing and to restrict the wearing of full-face coverings while operating an e-scooter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63569/25]

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Emer Currie

Question:

299. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport the existing rules and regulations surrounding the wearing of helmets and high-visibility clothing when operating an e-scooter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63570/25]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 298 and 299 together.

I wish to inform the Deputy that although the wearing of helmets and high-visibility clothing is not statutory, it is highly recommended by both the Department of Transport and the Road Safety Authority (RSA).

A statutory obligation to wear reflective clothing or helmets would require making it a criminal offence under road traffic legislation not to do so. The e-scooter user would then be issued with a fixed charge notice or summonsed to court, depending on the procedure in place for such offences. This would place a substantial additional burden on the resources of both the Courts and of An Garda Síochána.

On this basis, it has long been the view of my Department that the wearing of reflective clothing and helmets, for e-scooters, pedal cycles and e-bikes, is best promoted by educational and publicity campaigns, rather than by a punitive approach.

The RSA, which has responsibility for the promotion of road safety awareness and dissemination of road safety information, frequently undertakes campaigns to promote awareness, among pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter users, of the need for personal protective equipment and visibility on our roads. The safety benefits of reflective clothing and helmets are also set out in detail in the Rules of the Road Booklet.

Question No. 299 answered with Question No. 298.

Bus Services

Questions (300)

James O'Connor

Question:

300. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport his Department’s plans to fund Local Link services to connect local villages to towns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56037/25]

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Written answers

As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision.

Connecting Ireland is a major 5-year public transport initiative developed by the NTA to increase connectivity outside our major cities and towns, which commenced in mid-2022. Over 180 new and enhanced services have commenced since then, connecting 240 towns and villages to the public transport network. These services have provided connections to 61 healthcare facilities, 41 higher education facilities and 71 rail services.

Funding of €51 million was provided for Rural Regular Services in 2025 and a further €15 million was provided for new services which includes Connecting Ireland, new town services, and Bus Connects. More than 30 new and enhanced services have been implemented to date in 2025.

The 2026 Public Service Obligation funding allocation of €940 million represents a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from 2025. This reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that public transport services can continue to operate reliably and sustainably in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs.

In addition, a further €31 million has been secured for rural transport in 2026 – a 38% increase on last year’s funding. This ensures the continued delivery of vital services across rural Ireland, to meet demand in communities that depend on these services most.

Ports Policy

Questions (301, 302)

Barry Heneghan

Question:

301. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport the steps being taken by his Department to implement a coordinated, multi-port development strategy for offshore wind energy; if he will provide details of the planned investment, site designations, and timelines to expand available laydown space and quayside infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60460/25]

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Barry Heneghan

Question:

302. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport the specific measures his Department is taking to accelerate the development of a dedicated marshalling port, capable of supporting fixed-bottom offshore wind projects, given that recent analysis has identified the absence of such infrastructure as a critical barrier to meeting Ireland’s 2030 target of 5 GW of offshore wind capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60461/25]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 301 and 302 together.

My Department and I are committed to facilitating Irish commercial State ports as key enablers of Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) industry. ORE is integral to achieving Ireland’s climate action ambitions as well as presenting economic benefits on a regional and national level. The National Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce recognises the development of port infrastructure as a core objective, and my Department is working very closely with the Taskforce in this regard.

In 2021, the Department of Transport published a policy statement on the facilitation of offshore renewable energy by commercial ports in Ireland. This policy statement emphasises the importance of port facilities in Ireland for ORE developments during both the Marshalling and Assembly (M&A) and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) phases. The policy statement also sets out that a multi-port approach is required to address the needs of the industry. The current structure of the State commercial ports sector is that of independent commercial entities, each required to further develop their commercial business and compete with each other on a commercial basis. My Department’s ORE policy statement encourages all ports to proactively engage with the ORE industry and look towards potential development opportunities.

Since the publishing of the policy statement, a dedicated ORE Ports Facilitation Division has been established in my Department. This Division works to facilitate development of enabling ORE port infrastructure, particularly at commercial State ports. Additionally, an ORE Ports Co-Ordination Group has been established by my Department to facilitate consistent engagement with key stakeholders on ports’ progress with their ORE infrastructure projects. The group meets on a quarterly basis and not only allows for ports to engage directly with the Department, but also with other key Government Departments relevant to the delivery of ORE.

Ports in Ireland are actively preparing to service the offshore wind industry, with one port’s first phase of infrastructure development nearing completion and multiple other ports actively engaged in the consenting process.

The Port of Cork Company began construction on Phase 1 of its development at Ringaskiddy in October 2024 following the awarding of Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) funding and an investment agreement with Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF). The development, once complete, will place Port of Cork as the first commercial state port in Ireland ready to facilitate ORE developers whose ORE projects are currently in the planning process, noting that ORE development has previously been facilitated from Northern Ireland in Belfast Harbour. Further phases of Port of Cork’s development plan will expand its offering to the ORE industry into the future.

Rosslare Europort also has plans to service the offshore wind industry and has recently been granted a Maritime Area Consent (MAC) which will allow the port to submit a planning application for its proposed ORE Hub.

The Port of Waterford was also granted a MAC and submitted a planning application to An Coimisiún Pleanála in September 2025 to develop an ORE terminal.

Shannon Foynes Port Company is progressing plans to transform Foynes Island on the West Coast into an ORE and multi-purpose terminal.

A number of other private ports are also progressing plans to develop enabling infrastructure for the offshore wind industry.

Question No. 302 answered with Question No. 301.

Departmental Legal Cases

Questions (303)

Malcolm Byrne

Question:

303. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport the total legal costs in defending judicial reviews of planning decisions involving his Department and/or agencies within the aegis of his Department for each of the years 2020 to 2024 and to date in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63630/25]

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Written answers

The Chief State Solicitors Office (CSSO) are responsible for legal costs in defending judicial reviews of planning decisions. My Department avails of their service as per other central government Departments, direct costs are borne by the CSSO whilst claims are borne by the State Claims Agency. My Department does not track specific costs such as stenographer services, signing of affidavits relating to these cases. With regards the agencies under the Department's remit this is a matter for them I have forwarded your question to them for reply, please contact my Office if you do not receive such a reply within 10 working days.

Public Transport

Questions (304)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

304. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport if he will review an ongoing issue for a student Leap card applicant (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63676/25]

View answer

Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.

In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

Road Projects

Questions (305)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Question:

305. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the progress of the N20-M20 Cork Limerick motorway project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63681/25]

View answer

Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on the status of this project.

I can confirm that €4,500,000 has been allocated for the N/M20 Limerick to Cork scheme in 2025. As with all national roads projects in the NDP, the delivery programme for the project will be kept under review for 2026 and considered in terms of the overall funding envelope available to TII.

Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

Active Travel

Questions (306)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Question:

306. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the active travel projects in Cork; the plans to expand the number of projects in Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63682/25]

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Written answers

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel infrastructure. The National Transport Authority (NTA) along with the relevant local authorities are responsible for the allocation of funding at local authority level as well as the oversight of development and delivery of individual projects.

In general, the main focus of active travel investment is to support high quality walking and cycling infrastructure, for everyday trips in villages, towns and cities with a view to promoting the greatest potential modal shift to active travel.

Investment in active travel across the country, including in Cork, has remained at a consistently high level in recent years with over €290 million in funding provided to the NTA this year alone. Between both local authorities in Cork, €47 million has been allocated for walking and cycling infrastructure in 2025. As part of the allocations determination, the NTA liaises with each local authority to fully understand the projects being proposed by the local authority and its considerations in terms of priorities.

Given the ramping up of activities over the last few years in the Active Travel area, the number of projects being progressed now exceeds the level of funding made available to the NTA. Accordingly, the NTA is unable to fully fund all proposed Active Travel projects and has to prioritise certain projects over others in order to remain within its allocated budget. While a project may not be selected by the NTA for funding in a particular year, it may be funded in subsequent years.

Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.

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