Alan Kelly
Question:91. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that there is consistency in signage on motorways for tourist attractions for centres (details supplied). [54624/25]
View answerRoad Signage
Questions (91)
Written answers
I wish to thank the Deputy for his question,
My Department has recently published the latest Traffic Signs Manual which provides guidance to Local Authorities on the implementation of traffic signage and road markings. The manual stipulates what traffic signs are to be used on Irish roads, their layout and symbols, the circumstances in which each sign should be used and the rules for positioning them.
TII receives many requests for tourist signage on the motorway and national road network throughout the country. These are all dealt with in line with its Policy on the Provision of Tourist & Leisure Signage on National Roads. The Policy identifies tourist attractions as destinations considered for the provision of white-on-brown tourist signage and sets thresholds for the provision of such signage on the national road network.
Tourist signs are erected as an aid to safe and efficient navigation rather than as a means of advertising or promoting any particular business, premises or location. There is also a limit to the number of destinations that may be signed at any particular location. This is particularly the case on the motorway / dual carriageway network which contains some of the busiest sections of national road in the country, where drivers need to be alert at all times to the conditions around them and free in so far as possible from unnecessary distraction.
TII works closely with the Local Authorities and with Fáilte Ireland in the provision of tourist and leisure signage. Furthermore, Fáilte Ireland has a number of requirements that must be satisfied before it will recommend a particular tourist destination for signage off the national road network. These include visitor footfall, certain opening times / hours, provision of adequate parking and toilet facilities and so on. Requests for white-on-brown tourist signs should firstly be pursued through the Local Authority or Fáilte Ireland who will consider the merits of a particular attraction and liaise with TII in due course if they deem signage for this destination appropriate and feasible.
Road Tolls
Questions (92)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:92. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport when the current contract for the toll in Watergrasshill, County Cork is due to expire; the engagement that has taken place with regard to extending the contract; the amount raised via toll roads nationwide since 2020 to date; the way in which the income was allocated; if further information can be provided on expenditure, by year and, by road, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63174/25]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to thank the Deputy for his question.
It is important to point out that as Minister for Transport, I have no formal role when it comes to tolls. The setting of tolls is a statutory function of TII.
Of the ten tolls on the national road network, two are essentially “public” tolls, namely the M50 and the Dublin Tunnel. Revenue from these tolls is collected directly for TII by operating companies under contract to TII. These revenues are invested by TII in the operation and maintenance of the road network.
The other eight roads are “Public Private Partnership” (PPP) roads which were constructed and are now operated and maintained under long term contracts with TII. Toll revenue collected from PPP roads are used by the PPP companies to fund ongoing operations and maintenance activities, as well as to repay loans arising from the construction of the road.
I would add that road tolling aligns with national climate policy and the principle that the ‘user pays’, and if tolling revenue did not exist, it would be necessary to use additional exchequer funding to ensure that the national road network is maintained to a high standard. The use of PPP contracts has also allowed for the rapid expansion of our motorway network. PPP contracts allow for risk sharing with the private sector, and for the completion of critical public infrastructure without incurring upfront costs.
The M8 Rathcormac to Fermoy Bypass involved the construction of an 18 km stretch of road incorporating a new viaduct over the River Blackwater, and opened in 2006. The Public Private Partnership (PPP) contract for the scheme is due to expire on 11 June 2034. I can confirm that no engagement has taken place with regard to extending the contract. While it was not possible to provide a full response in the time available, I will ask my officials to contact the Deputy directly regarding the matters he has raised.
Rail Network
Questions (93)
James O'Connor
Question:93. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if he will take urgent action on the lack of train carriages available for morning services from Midleton train station to Kent Station during rush hour; if his Department is aware of the volume of passengers who take those morning commuter trips each weekday morning; if his Department will ensure that extra carriages are added to this route expeditiously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63496/25]
View answerWritten answers
As is occurring across the wider railway network, Cork train services, such as the Midleton to Kent line, are experiencing record demand, especially during weekdays, with commuters availing of peak journey times to connect with work, school, and other destinations. In fact, passenger numbers are now over 1 million journeys on average each weekday across the entire on the Transport For Ireland network.
Following the recent increase in service frequency, from hourly to half-hourly on the Cobh and Midleton lines, along with additional services on the Mallow commuter line, all available capacity is being utilised each day. As a result, there is currently no spare capacity to add further carriages to peak-time services. While the trains are busy, they are designed to safely accommodate full loading at the busiest times, though Iarnród Éireann appreciate this can be uncomfortable for passengers.
The Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme, which represents the largest investment in the rail network in Cork undertaken by the State, is being delivered on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the Programme consists of a signalling upgrade, construction of a through-platform at Kent Station, which opened in April, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. This phase has received EU Funding under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and is scheduled to be completed next year.
Phase 2 of the programme plans for the electrification of the Cork commuter rail network and the delivery of up to eight new stations, as well as the upgrade of existing stations including Mallow. In 2024, Iarnród Éireann awarded a contract to TYPSA and Roughan O’Donovan appointing them as multi-disciplinary consultants for the design of Phase 2 of the Programme.
The first public consultation on Phase 2 of the Programme concluded in July. Phase 2 will be progressed following the completion of Phase 1, subject to funding and relevant approvals.
The Programme will provide a more efficient and decarbonised transport service for the area to help facilitate population and economic growth over the coming decades, enabling a frequency of up to every 10 minutes on the Cork Rail Commuter network.
Greenways Provision
Questions (94)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Question:94. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Transport if he will take CPOs off the table in relation to greenways; if he will engage in meaningful consultation with landowners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63515/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to greenways. The planning, design and construction of National and Regional Greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) in conjunction with the relevant local authority
To assist in delivery of greenways a Code of Best Practice was produced in 2021 to ensure a transparent and pragmatic approach was in taken in terms of community engagement and land acquisition.
The Code states that when developing greenways state-owned lands should be considered to the greatest extent possible and in doing so minimise the potential impacts on privately owned land. Where it is not feasible to use state-owned lands or where there is limited state-owned lands, engagement with local landowners should be sustained and frequent.
The importance of regular public consultation is embedded within the Code. Engagement between affected landowners and the project team is a critical step to ensure that severance of farm holdings is avoided where feasible to do so particularly once a preferred route corridor is published. An independent agronomist is also available to assist landowners with their queries provide advice on the impact of the proposals.
The Code does refer to the use of the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) as a ‘measure of last resort’ if voluntary land acquisition agreements are not possible after sustained engagement with individual landowners. The CPO is a legal mechanism that is contained within the Planning and Development Act 2000 (Section 213) and the Roads Act 1993 (Section 52) which outlines the statutory options available to local authorities. I would like to reiterate that this mechanism is not the preferred or initial approach in delivering greenways.
I have been advised that the Code will undergo a full review in 2026, and key stakeholders will be engaged in the revision process.
Rail Network
Questions (95)
Paul Donnelly
Question:95. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport if the issue of elevator services being regularly out-of-order at all stations will be examined (details supplied). [63558/25]
View answerWritten answers
When an elevator fault arises, Iarnród Éireann acknowledge that even for a brief period of time while a lift is out of order this can be extremely inconvenient for passengers. The company endeavour to return all out of service lifts to operational service as quickly as possible.
Iarnród Éireann update their app, website, and station information screens as soon as lift information is reported to ensure passengers can plan when issues arise.
The company work with a lift maintenance contractor to ensure that lifts re-enter service as quickly as possible in the event of a fault. In most instances this will happen same day or within 24 hours.
However, where specific part replacement or major works / repairs are required, it can take longer.
The 'Big Lift programme' saw investment in existing lifts at 52 stations across the network between 2020 and 2025, significantly improving lift reliability. A Lift Call system is also in place at most station lifts, ensuring live monitored access and preventing vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
Funded by the National Transport Authority, Iarnród Éireann are working on a prioritised basis to install new lifts where a second platform may not be accessible. The NTA has funded footbridges over the railway lines with lifts at; Carlow, Edgeworthstown, Ennis, Dalkey, Little Island, Gormanstown, Banteer, Rathmore and Maynooth.
Under current construction are Athy, Rathdrum, and Boyle stations. In 2026 further upgrades are scheduled, subject to planning permission, in Glounthaune, Rushbrooke, Waterford, Claremorris, and Wicklow.
The provision of accessible, affordable, and available public transport services for everyone, including disabled people, is a priority for my Department. I want to ensure that all public transport operators provide accessible and inclusive services for every passenger.
Public Transport
Questions (96)
Naoise Ó Cearúil
Question:96. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for the establishment and implementation of the proposed transport security force, given its importance in improving passenger safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63500/25]
View answerWritten answers
I can assure you Deputy that the Department of Transport is actively progressing the legislative proposals required to deliver on the Government’s commitment to establish a Transport Security Force and is working closely with the National Transport Authority (NTA) in this regard.
This work involves careful and informed consideration of the most appropriate model for the force, with all key stakeholders fully engaged and attending meetings with my Department on an ongoing basis, including – the NTA, operators, trade unions, passenger groups, An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice.
The Programme for Government sets out a clear commitment: that a Transport Security Force will operate under the NTA with powers similar to those held by Airport Police and Customs Officers. The introduction of such a force will require new legislation and this issue is a priority for my Department, and we are determined to advance it as swiftly as possible. We expect legislation to progress during 2026 with a view to having the force operational by 2027.
In parallel with the work being carried out in the Department of Transport, the Government continues to invest heavily in public transport safety, to date €14 million in 2025. Twenty rapid response hubs have now been established across the Iarnród Éireann intercity network, enhancing their ability to respond quickly to incidents and support frontline staff. In the Dublin region, the Dublin Bus Safer Journeys Team has dedicated units covering North, South, and Central Dublin as of February 2025.
All buses are also now equipped with eleven internal CCTV cameras, and on the Luas, Transdev has a full-time dedicated security staff patrolling both Red & Green lines from early morning to last tram.
The establishment of this Transport Security Force is a key priority for Government, and I fully support all the ongoing positive work to progress towards creating a safer public transport network for staff and passengers.
Bus Services
Questions (97)
Paul Murphy
Question:97. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he will review the new F-Spine routes and instruct the NTA to make the changes necessary in order that journeys are not more indirect and do not take much longer than the previous routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63318/25]
View answerWritten 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 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Projects
Questions (98)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:98. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport for urgent improvement and safety works to be carried out on the N22 road section east of Macroom to Ballincollig; if the high road incident figures on this stretch of road will be considered on advancing urgent improvement and safety works for this road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63447/25]
View answerWritten 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 N22 Macroom to Ballincollig.
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.
Bus Services
Questions (99)
Mark Ward
Question:99. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport the amount in fines issued to a bus company (details supplied) and Dublin Bus in 20224 and 2025; the consequences of these fines on route allocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63458/25]
View answerWritten 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, GoAhead.
The National Transport Authority monitors the performance of all public transport operators. Under existing contractual arrangements, financial penalties apply where performance falls below agreed standards, and they are also investing in a new vehicle location system for the fleet which will improve the reliability of the real time passenger information system. They continue to engage with Go-Ahead to enhance service reliability and ensure continuous improvement.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Projects
Questions (100)
James O'Connor
Question:100. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport the status of the appointment of a design consultant for the N25 Midleton to Youghal scheme; the timeline for the appointment if not already appointed; if his Department has outlined the importance of this project to the southern region for persons who travel from Rosslare to Cork each day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63495/25]
View answerWritten 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 €700,000 has been allocated for the Midleton to Youghal 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 updating you as to the latest status of this project. 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.
Bus Services
Questions (101)
Aindrias Moynihan
Question:101. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the-up-to-date position on the implementation of the changes to be rolled out to the current 233 bus service; the route and frequency for implementation under the new services 233N, 233C and 233S; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63446/25]
View answerWritten 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 Bus Éireann.
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 Bus Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Road Projects
Questions (102, 124)
Tony McCormack
Question:102. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Transport the current position regarding the development of the N52 Link Road in County Offaly; the way in which the project will improve connectivity and safety in the midlands region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63387/25]
View answerTony McCormack
Question:124. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Transport the current status of the proposed N52 Link Road project in County Offaly; the stage the project is at within the Transport Infrastructure Ireland delivery pipeline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63386/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 124 together.
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 the N52 Tullamore to Kilbeggan project.
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.
Bus Services
Questions (103)
Pa Daly
Question:103. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport if he has met with the NTA to address the 6,000 complaints submitted to the NTA in relation to cancelled, delayed or so called ghost buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63063/25]
View answerWritten 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.
I want to reassure the Deputy that as part of my regular engagement, I met with the NTA last week to discuss a range of public transport matters, including the recent performance issues. I had also previously met with the NTA specifically on ghost buses, and they fully acknowledge that an inadequate level of service has been provided on certain routes in recent months, and they have been working closely with the operators to rectify the situation.
The performance of all public transport operators is monitored by the NTA as part of the contractual arrangements in place between it and the operators. These contractual arrangements allow for not just the monitoring of performance by the NTA and the publication by it of annual performance reports, but importantly, the contracts also allow for the imposition of financial penalties where performance does not meet the required standard. The NTA are also investing in a new vehicle location system for the fleet which will improve the reliability of the real time passenger information system. They continue to engage with operators to enhance service reliability and ensure continuous improvement.
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.
Bus Services
Questions (104)
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Question:104. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Transport the way in which wheelchair users and others with limited mobility can be better accommodated at bus stops; the way in which the need for these stops can be highlighted to and facilitated by those responsible for their provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63381/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
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 and state agencies, who have responsibility for both day to day operational issues and the built environment, to progressively make public transport more accessible.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for accessible public transport, including accessible bus stops, 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Bus Services
Questions (105)
Cathal Crowe
Question:105. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the implementation of the Programme for Government commitment to expand bus services in cities and continue to strengthen local urban transport in towns. [63510/25]
View answerWritten 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. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including the rollout of New Town Services.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Questions (106)
Malcolm Byrne
Question:106. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport the action his Department is taking to address the growing problem of overcrowding and lack of services on the Dublin to Rosslare rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63265/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The issue raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Irish Rail. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's questions to Irish Rail for direct response. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Transport
Questions (107)
Cathal Crowe
Question:107. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the work his Department is carrying out to establish a dedicated transport policing force. [63509/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I can assure you that my Department is actively progressing the legislative proposals required to deliver on the Government’s commitment to establish a Transport Security Force and is working closely with the National Transport Authority (NTA) in this regard. This work involves careful and informed consideration of the most appropriate model for the force, with all key stakeholders fully engaged – the NTA, operators, trade unions, passenger groups, An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice. Since assuming office, I have met with these stakeholders as a collective twice and we will continue to work together to deliver on this commitment.
Decisions regarding the establishment of a dedicated transport police service under An Garda Síochána would be a matter for the Minister of Justice and the Garda Commissioner.
The Programme for Government sets out a clear commitment: that a Transport Security Force will operate under the NTA with powers similar to those held by Airport Police and Customs Officers. The introduction of such a force will require new legislation and this issue is a priority for my Department, and we are determined to advance it as swiftly as possible. We expect legislation to progress during 2026 with a view to having the force operational by 2027.
In parallel with the work being carried out in the Department of Transport, the Government continues to invest heavily in public transport safety, to date €14 million in 2025 . Twenty rapid response hubs have now been established across the Iarnród Éireann intercity network, enhancing their ability to respond quickly to incidents and support frontline staff. In the Dublin region, the Dublin Bus Safer Journeys Team has dedicated units covering North, South, and Central Dublin as of February 2025.
All buses are also now equipped with eleven internal CCTV cameras, and the modern fleet includes three external cameras on each bus to further strengthen surveillance and deterrence. On the Luas, Transdev has a full time dedicated security staff patrolling both Red & Green lines from early morning to last tram.
While these measures mark significant progress, antisocial behaviour on public transport remains a serious concern. It is those who use and work within the network who are most directly affected, and the establishment of the Transport Security Force will be key in addressing this issue.
The establishment of this Transport Security Force is a key priority for Government, and as the Minister for Transport I fully support all the ongoing positive work to progress towards creating a safer public transport network for staff and passengers.
In the meantime, we are committed to delivering a safe and secure public transport system, and we will maintain momentum on all fronts until the Transport Security Force is in place.
Driver Licences
Questions (108)
Michael Murphy
Question:108. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Transport his plans to address the current loophole in the licensing system which allows learner drivers to repeatedly renew their learner permits without ever sitting a driving test; if he plans to legislate to require learner drivers to sit a test after their third permit, as recommended by PARC road safety group, and raised before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport and Communications on 8 October 2025; the timeline for the introduction of such legislation in order to close this loophole and strengthen road safety compliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60927/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that regulations to ensure learner drivers can no longer repeatedly renew their permits without taking a driving test have been signed. SI 527/2025 - the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2025, will come into effect on 1 November 2026.
From November 2026, learners with a permit in categories A, A1, A2 (motorcycle), AM, B (car) or W (tractor) for four years must have taken a practical driving test in the previous two years before they can renew their permit. For most learners, this will be for their third permit. If they have not taken a test, they cannot renew their permit. One further permit, for one year only, will be allowed where the learner has taken a test in the previous two years.
Learners who have held a permit for seven years or more will not be able to renew and will have to begin the learning to drive process again if they wish to continue learning to drive. For category B (car) permits, this involves completing a theory test, obtaining a learner permit, taking 12 Essential Driver Training lessons and sitting a practical test.
Learners with one-year permits will have the same amount of time to complete the learning to drive process as those on two-year permits.
In addition, the period allowed for renewal of a permit following expiry will be reduced from five years to two years.
The Road Safety Authority will be in contact with the learners affected in due course, setting out the changes and providing information regarding testing options and supports available.
This is a road safety measure, to ensure that learners do not remain on learner permits indefinitely without ever taking a test and to encourage learners to become qualified drivers.
Public Transport
Questions (109)
Keira Keogh
Question:109. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Transport if there are plans to expand the frequency of Local Link and Bus Éireann services coming in and out of Mayo, particularly during mornings and weekends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63483/25]
View answerWritten 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Projects
Questions (110, 313)
Noel McCarthy
Question:110. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progression of the proposed upgrade of the R624 access road to Cobh and the Great Island in east Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63176/25]
View answerJames O'Connor
Question:313. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport the status of the proposed R624 access road to connect Cobh and the Great Island to Cork following a meeting held with An Taoiseach and the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and Minister for Transport in October 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63755/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 110 and 313 together.
In accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Any new road projects that seek State funding are assessed by the Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines (formerly the Public Spending Code) and the Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important for local authorities to prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility with these requirements in mind.
In this regard, Cork County Council submitted an initial project appraisal to the Department in 2019 regarding the upgrade of the R624 Cobh Road. The project, as submitted, includes upgrading the existing N25-R624 interchange, the provision of a dual carriageway from the interchange to Marino Point, widening of Slatty Bridge, the provision of a new bridge crossing to Great Island at Belvelly and upgrading the existing R624 from Marino Point to Cobh.
The estimated cost of this scheme was more than €100 million, with possible staged implementation.
In line with Government requirements Cork County Council also produced a Strategic Assessment Report (SAR) for the Great Island Connectivity Scheme and a draft was forwarded to the Department in November 2022.
Since then, both the Public Spending Code and the Department’s Transport Appraisal Framework (TAF) guidance have been updated - the Department liaised with the Council regarding new requirements under the new infrastructure Guidelines and the TAF including the preparation of a Project Outline Document (POD) and business case incorporating the work already undertaken at the SAR stage.
The Council submitted the POD to the Department in March 2024. Following the submission of the POD, the Council commenced work on developing a brief for the appointment of consultants to deliver the scheme through options assessment, design and planning, starting with the commencement of a Preliminary Business Case. The Council submitted the brief for appointment of consultants in December 2024 to the Department for review. The Council hopes to appoint a consultant in late 2025 once the brief has been finalised.
An allocation of €350,000 was made to Cork County Council as part of the 2025 Regional and Local Roads Grants to assist in the development of the Preliminary Business Case.