Written Answers Nos. 261-280
261. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport if local authorities use a national standardised ramp design for ramps placed on public roads to slow traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71334/25]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants.
The design of speed ramps on public roads is the responsibility of the local authorities. The relevant standards for the design of speed ramps are set out in the Traffic Management Guidelines.
262. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Transport the legal basis under which tram drivers operate on public roads; if tram drivers are required to hold a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence or any other form of licence recognised under State law when operating trams on public roads; if the "tram licence" issued by the operating company is recognised under Irish law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71358/25]
View answerOn-street running of tram light railway must comply with the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 182 of 1997) as amended by S.I. No. 98 of 2003 and S.I. No. 404 of 2004 and the associated road traffic signs and tram signals that have been prescribed for the on-street running of trams. Drivers of trams must comply with the road speed limits that are applied under the Road Traffic Acts and with the speed limit regulations that are made under the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. A tram driver is a safety critical worker for the purposes of the Railway Safety Act 2005 and must comply with the safety obligations that apply under that Act.
To apply to drive a tram on a public road a tram driver is required to hold a valid driver licence that is issued under the Road Traffic Act 1961 i.e. a personal driving licence. The training and qualification of persons to drive a tram vehicle on the light railway infrastructure is arranged by the employer (the railway organisation that provides passenger light rail services). The Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 provides that a person who is disqualified under the Road Traffic Acts for holding a driving licence is prohibited from driving a tram on a public road.
The Public Service Vehicle driver licensing system does not apply to tram drivers.
263. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reinstate the 145 bus in Dublin; if he recognises the extra time it has added for commuters who previously used the bus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71362/25]
View answerAs 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. It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) that holds the 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, and as Minister for Transport, I continue to engage with the NTA on an ongoing basis in relation to maintaining high operational standards on all forms of public transport.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
264. Deputy Donna McGettigan asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the introduction of an e-bike rental scheme for County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71391/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to cycling and public transport infrastructure, including the provision of funding to the National Transport Authority (NTA) in support of public bike-sharing schemes in Galway, Limerick, Cork and Waterford.
Outside of the regional cities, many local authorities have arrangements in place with shared mobility companies to provide bike-sharing schemes under contract or licence agreement. These schemes are not funded through the NTA. Accordingly, any proposals regarding the introduction of a shared bike scheme in Clare are a matter for consideration by Clare County Council.
265. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport if Irish Rail plans to have a new 6am Athy-Dublin Heuston train service, during the week in early 2026. [71414/25]
View answerAs Minister of State, I have responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
266. Deputy Conor Sheehan asked the Minister for Transport his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding Park & Ride facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71458/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) is leading the development and rollout of strategic park and ride sites nationwide through the Park and Ride Development Office (PRDO).
The Programme for Government commits to working with local authorities and relevant agencies to develop affordable Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts of major towns and cities.
The NTA established the PRDO in February 2020. The function of the PRDO is to enable and advance the delivery of strategic Park & Ride sites in collaboration with Local Authorities and transport agencies across all regions of the State by providing full time specialist resources on these projects.
The Limerick & Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, 2040 (LSMATS) was published by NTA in November 2022, setting out the vision for Park and Ride (P&R) for the region over this time horizon. While the LSMATS covers the period up to 2040, this is not the target date for the completion of projects developed under the strategy. My Department and the NTA will continue to hold project timelines under regular review with a view to accelerating key projects, where funding and resources allows.
267. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Transport if he will address the lack of connectivity between Irish Rail services arriving in Ballina and Bus Éireann departures to Belmullet and Blacksod, which currently leaves visitors with insufficient transfer time or no onward connection; if he will engage with both operators to review timetables and improve integration to support tourism development in Erris, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance public transport accessibility for rural communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71473/25]
View answerAs 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 continue to engage with the NTA on an ongoing basis in relation to maintaining high operational standards on all forms of public transport. However, in light of the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query 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.
268. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport his plans to increase the carriage fleet of Irish Rail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71557/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ programme.
The DART+ programme which comprises five different projects in and around the GDA will triple the length of the electrified network from circa 50km to 150km and double city centre capacity from 26,000 passengers per hour per direction to 52,000 during peak hours.
As part of the DART+ programme, DART+ Fleet provides a ten-year procurement framework for electric and battery-electric train fleet. Two fleet orders have been placed (185 carriages, largely battery-electric with some electric units). The first order for the purchase of 95 additional DART carriages, which compromise of 65 battery-electric carriages and 30 electric carriages, have started arriving and are currently undergoing certification and safety testing. It is intended that the new battery-electric sets will be initially deployed on the Northern Commuter Line serving Dublin to/from Drogheda from 2027, which will provide additional capacity on the line.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
269. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the progression of the Cross City Link in Galway post the adjudication on the judicial review process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71559/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities, including Galway. BusConnects is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State, and is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA).
The Cross-City Link is a 6.7km scheme that aims to create a Sustainable Transport Corridor from the northeast of Galway to the northwest, crossing Droichead an Dóchais (formerly known as the Salmon Weir Bridge). Once constructed, will help to improve travel times on the bus network and to improve connections for pedestrians and cyclists.
Galway City Council submitted a planning application in September 2022 to An Coimisiún Pleanála for the project. An Oral Hearing for the project was held in February 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála granted planning permission in 2024; however, it is subject to judicial review, which is still ongoing.
The National Development Plan Review 2025 Sectoral Plan for Transport allocates funding to BusConnects Galway to commence the construction of Sustainable Transport Corridors, subject to the outcome of the planning process and any subsequent legal challenges.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
270. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport his plans to avoid disruption with the rollout of the B-spine (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71580/25]
View answerAs 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 BusConnects routes in Dublin.
As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, with the aim to provide better bus services across five cities. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State and is managed by the NTA.
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.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
271. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Transport his plans to extend the current M50 and Eastlink toll exemptions for motorcycles to all tolled roads; the plans to adjust the annual motorbike road tax for example from €88 to €100 in exchange for nationwide toll access; the plans to provide motorcyclists with the ability to pre-pay or post-pay online, linked to their registration plate, avoiding the need to stop at toll pay points; the plans to develop a weather-resistant toll tag specifically designed for motorcycles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71692/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Therefore, matters relating to the day to day operations regarding national roads, including toll roads are within the remit of TII. More specifically, the statutory power to levy tolls, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into agreements with private investors are vested in TII under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended). Moreover, the contracts for the privately-operated toll schemes are commercial agreements between TII and the Public Private Partnership (PPP) concessionaires concerned.
Please note that motor tax rates are under the remit of the Department of Finance.
Noting the above position, I have referred the question regarding tolls to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
272. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport the actions his Department is undertaking to improve the availability of rural taxis and hackneys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71719/25]
View answerThe regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including the local area hackney, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016. I have no role in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV sector.
The purpose of the local area hackney (LAH) licence is to offer a SPSV service in a rural community where existing transport services do not serve the needs of the community. The LAH can meet the demand for these services, but it cannot displace any existing SPSV services. Applications are open to any person who wishes to provide this service, subject to the regulations.
The NTA held a public consultation, which closed on 28 November last, on proposed changes to the current LAH regulations to increase LAH licence uptake. The proposed key changes to the regulations are to: (1) permit more than one local area hackney driver to operate the local area hackney; (2) enhance the voice of local communities regarding the transport needs assessment for their area, and (3) reduce the regulatory burden on applicants by giving greater clarity to local communities and applicants on the areas nationwide that are open for applications for LAH licences.
In addition to those key changes, the NTA also proposes to: extend the maximum licence period for vehicles and drivers from 3 years to 5 years; mandate licence holders to demonstrate that they are providing satisfactory service to their community when renewing their licence; reduce the time period in which a licence holder must complete their licence renewals from 12/24 months following expiration to within 3 months of their licence expiry to ensure that a community is not without the required services, and introduce a new Fixed Penalty Notice offence for picking up passengers outside of their permitted local area.
Given the NTA's responsibility in this area, I have referred your question to the NTA for further information. Please advise my private office if you have not received a reply within 10 working days.
273. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Minister for Transport if funding for greenways or active travel projects are subject to minimum opening hour conditions when located in public parks with set hours. [71720/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
Noting the role of the NTA in relation to funding for active travel projects, 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.
274. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the nature of refurbishment works that were carried out at Busáras Station in 2024 and 2025, in tabular form; and the nature of refurbishment works that are scheduled to be carried out at this station during the first half of 2026. [71768/25]
View answerAs 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 bus stops/shelters nationally.
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.
275. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the number and percentage of the Dublin Bus fleet that is aged over 13 years, as of 9 December 2025, in tabular form. [71769/25]
View answerAs 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 query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Dublin Bus. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
276. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Transport to address the need for an increased allocation under the safety improvement schemes given the current funding level of €370,000 is insufficient to meet the safety needs of County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71775/25]
View answerThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Councils' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is a matter for the local authority.
My Department sought applications in September 2025 for consideration for funding of safety improvement works on regional and local roads to be carried out by local authorities during 2026. The schemes for inclusion in the application are decided by the local authorities and submitted in order of priority.
Within the overall budget available for the Safety Improvement Grant Programme, the 2026 allocations will be decided following consideration of Councils’ applications by the Department. The allocations will be notified to Councils as part of the general grant allocation process early next year.
277. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he plans to sign the Statutory Instrument to increase pensions for CIÉ pensioners before Christmas 2025 (details supplied). [71790/25]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
Regarding the recent engagement between CIÉ and the Trade Union Group (TUG) on the matter of the CIÉ Pension Schemes, the Department acknowledges the longstanding tradition within CIÉ of ensuring that terms and conditions of employees, which include pension provision, are negotiated collectively with recognised Trade Unions.
I welcome the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward, which is aimed at balancing the objectives of supporting the future sustainability of the schemes, protecting existing benefits for members of the scheme (including pensioners), and contributing to the overall financial stability of the CIÉ Group. I also acknowledge the positive outcome from the ballot held on the CIÉ Pension Proposal for both Schemes, which was agreed by CIÉ and the TUG in May of this year.
Keeping in line with the appropriate processes, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals , my Department are currently engaging with CIÉ as well as financial advisors at NewERA, the Pensions Authority and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the next steps in progressing the agreement and bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members.
278. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding bus drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71791/25]
View answerAs Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that section 8(4) of the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997, as amended, states that a driver entering a public road from a place which is not a public road shall yield right of way to all vehicles and pedestrians proceeding in either direction along the public road. Therefore, any bus entering a public road from a bus station, where there is no signal or other control, must give right of way to ongoing traffic on the public road which they wish to enter.
279. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Transport the number of qualified female bus drivers currently working for Bus Éireann, in tabular form. [71801/25]
View answerAs 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 query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
280. Deputy Tom Brabazon asked the Minister for Transport the number of qualified female bus drivers currently working for Dublin Bus, in tabular form. [71802/25]
View answerAs 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 query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Dublin Bus. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
