Sorca Clarke
Question:122. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence to outline the role played by the Defence Forces and Civil Defence during Storm Bram. [72656/25]
View answerDefence Forces
Questions (122)
Written answers
In the immediate aftermath of Storm Bram, both the Defence Forces and Civil Defence were ready for activation if called upon. Civil Defence Officers across the State participated in local authority Severe Weather Assessment Teams (SWAT) meetings. In addition, many Volunteers were readied but not subsequently activated by their local authority. Donegal Civil Defence did deploy sandbags to the homes of elderly residents in Donegal Town in order to mitigate the risk of flooding in low lying areas.
Civil Defence Units across the State also recently completed a Rest Centre exercise, to ensure effective response if activated for severe weather/other evacuation.
Defence Forces
Questions (123)
Sorca Clarke
Question:123. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the progress made on recruitment and retention; and whether training capacity is to be expanded. [72657/25]
View answerWritten answers
As of the 31 October 2025, the latest date such figures are available for, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,760 personnel consisting of 6,237 Army, 739 Air Corps and 784 Naval Service personnel respectively.
On foot of the recommendations from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, Government approved a move, over a six-year period, to a level of Permanent Defence Force capability equivalent to Level of Ambition 2. This will require an additional 2,000 personnel, including a civilian component, beyond the 9,500-establishment figure that was in place at the time of the Commission’s report.
The establishment figure for the Permanent Defence Force has increased incrementally since 2022 to 9,739 to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations of the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
Working towards the achievement of Level of Ambition 2, Budget 2026 provided a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €145 million on 2025. These funds include provision for the recruitment of a net 400 additional PDF members per annum.
In order to meet government targets, the Defence Forces are making concerted efforts to increase recruitment. This includes an expansion of training capacity and to this end, a Joint Induction Training Centre has been established in Gormanston Barracks which provides initial training to new recruits.
Last year saw a stabilisation in numbers with 708 inductions to the Permanent Defence Force and the military authorities have advised that they are targeting over 750 inductions for 2025. In 2026, the Defence Forces inform me that they hope that the training capacity will be expanded to accommodate an annual recruitment target of circa 850 people. There continues to be very strong interest in a career in the Defence Forces with further growth again this year in the number of applications received. A total of 14,879 applications have been received to the end of October this year which represents an 11% increase on the 13,348 applications received for all of 2024.
Government has introduced a range of key enabling measures to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention. These include increases in the maximum ages of recruitment and retirement respectively, the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel and the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces subject to certain exemptions. The Patrol Duty allowance payable to Naval Service personnel at sea has been doubled after ten days at sea in a calendar year while the Naval Service tax credit has been extended for a further five years.
There has also been significant progress on pay with a further pay award due in February of next year.
Though challenges undoubtedly remain, the allocation of record levels of expenditure, coupled with the recruitment and retention initiatives currently in train, is indicative of the government's commitment to Defence.
Departmental Properties
Questions (124)
Sorca Clarke
Question:124. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence to outline the current schedule of planned capital works at Custume Barracks, Athlone. [72658/25]
View answerWritten answers
There is one capital project currently in procurement for Custume Barracks; the New Engineer Equipment Stores. Construction of the new Stores building is expected to commence in Q1 2026 providing an energy efficient and cost effective facility whilst also delivering a more central and consolidated location for management of equipment at Custume Barracks.
In addition to the New Engineer Equipment store, the following projects have been completed at Custume Barracks to-date in 2025:
• Replacement Hangar for the Emergency Ambulance Service
• Band Hall Heat Pump Installation
In addition, my Department also allocates funding each year to the Defence Forces for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of its building stock. This year a devolved budget of €12.5 million was assigned by my Department to the Defence Forces for these tasks. The individual prioritisation of specific projects to be carried out is solely a matter for the Defence Forces in keeping with the delegated nature of this budget.
Defence Forces
Questions (125)
Sorca Clarke
Question:125. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the current staffing strength for all units based in Custume Barracks; and the impact of staffing shortfalls on training and operations. [72659/25]
View answerWritten answers
As of the 31 October 2025, the latest date such figures are available for, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,760 personnel consisting of 6,237 Army, 739 Air Corps and 784 Naval Service personnel respectively.
For operational and security reasons, details of the number of Defence Forces personnel that are currently stationed at Custume Barracks, Athlone cannot be disclosed. It should be noted however that the number of personnel stationed at a particular location will frequently vary on an on-going basis, as it is a normal operational feature for there to be a constant through-flow of personnel into and out of military installations.
In 2025 units within Custume Barracks continue to conduct a wide range of courses including induction and career development courses alongside their core military skills & training and will continue to do so in 2026, in line with Defence Forces priorities.
Departmental Properties
Questions (126)
Sorca Clarke
Question:126. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence whether any assessment has been carried out of the feasibility or strategic implications of relocating or redeveloping Custume Barracks in Athlone. [72660/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Defence, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.
The Commission on the Defence Forces undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference in its report published in 2022. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
There are a number of Government approved, Commission recommendations contained in the report which may impact on the structure of the Defence Forces including that the structure of the Army be reviewed, and in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered.
No decisions on the future disposition or locations of Defence Forces formations, installations and personnel have been made at this time.
In keeping with the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, the Defence Forces have established an office of Army Force Design and an overarching strategic force design office, which has begun to undertake the significant work required to give effect to this recommendation.
On completion of the force design work by the Defence Forces and other work, the Chief of Staff will submit a report on Force Design to me for review. This is complicated and challenging work which we need to get right to ensure that we design a modern force which is fit for purpose for future generations.
Defence Forces
Questions (127)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Question:127. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the measures her Department is taking to ensure the budget for the Reserve Defence Force will be sufficient for the coming year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [72679/25]
View answerWritten answers
A key priority for me, as Minister for Defence, is the modernisation of our Defence Forces, and revitalising our Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) is a vital part of that transformation process. The RDF Regeneration and Development Plan contains concrete actions to drive forward recruitment and retention, resourcing, training and education and integration and deployment.
It is essential that this transformation process is adequately underpinned by a robust budget and, in that context, I can assure the Deputy that the budget for the RDF is is closely monitored, on an ongoing basis, jointly by my officials and the Defence Forces Office of Reserve Affairs.
The success of this process, and evidence of the increased interest in the Reserve Defence Force (RDF), was reflected when the original 2024 budget allocation for the RDF was proactively increased in Q4 2024 to meet evolving levels of RDF activity, with a further increase requested and sanctioned in the latter part of the year. The budget was further increased to €3.5m for 2025 and will be increased again for 2026.
The initiatives contained in the RDF Regeneration and Development Plan are generating positive change and increased momentum towards a regenerated, trained and capable RDF to support the Permanent Defence Forces and the work in 2026 will build on that success.
Defence Forces
Questions (128)
John Paul O'Shea
Question:128. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Defence if she will address the concerns of Reserve Defence Force members regarding recent changes to reservist payments, including the removal of payment for routine activities and the reduced effective daily rate after taxation; the impact these changes are having on participation, recruitment and retention within the Reserve; the steps that will be taken to ensure a fair and sustainable payment structure for RDF personnel; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [73014/25]
View answerWritten answers
One of my key priorities is the modernisation of our Defence Forces, and revitalising our Reserve Defence Forces is a vital part of that transformation process. The Regeneration and Development Plan contains concrete actions to drive forward recruitment and retention, resourcing, training and education and integration and deployment.
The conditions under which reservists are paid are set out in Defence Force Regulations (DFRs). In 2023, the Defence Forces issued a letter of instruction (LOI) relating to such payments. The LOI was regrettably not consistent with the regulation.
Reservists are an integral part of the Defence Forces and should be remunerated appropriately. My predecessor requested that the Defence Forces submit a robust business case to clearly set out exactly which reserve activities should attract payment and I am advised that the business case is well underway.
While this work is ongoing, the Defence Forces are progressing possible solutions for Members of the RDF. Any proposed changes to paid activities may require sanction from the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation and a regulatory amendment.
I can assure the Deputy that all eligible RDF activities were paid for, reflected in the fact that the original 2024 budget allocation for the RDF was increased by 36 per cent during the year, the budget for 2025 was increased to €3.5m. Additionally, the budget will be increased further for 2026. These increases emphasise my continuing support for the regeneration of all aspects of the RDF.
National Development Plan
Questions (129)
Réada Cronin
Question:129. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the M4 Maynooth to Leixlip Project as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73060/25]
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.
The M4 Maynooth to Leixlip Project is among the projects listed in the recently published Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport, and it is anticipated that it will be in construction by the end of 2030. 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. Allocations for national roads in 2026 will be published in the coming weeks.
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.
Departmental Reviews
Questions (130, 131)
Ryan O'Meara
Question:130. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the status of the review of the large public service vehicle licensing regime; the milestones completed to date; the expected date for completion of the policy review; and the timeline for publication of the first draft of the Large Public Service Vehicle Bill, which was previously indicated as due in autumn 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72606/25]
View answerRyan O'Meara
Question:131. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline the steps being considered to streamline the current large public service vehicle inspection process, to eliminate duplication between Garda PSV inspections and the commercial vehicle roadworthiness test (CVRT); and whether his Department intends to move toward a simplified licensing model that recognises EU whole vehicle type approval and the annual CVRT as the primary safety mechanisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72607/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 130 and 131 together.
In order to operate a bus/coach passenger service in Ireland a number of licensing requirements set by various government bodies must be adhered to, with the ultimate goal being to keep Irish roads and passengers safe.
These regulatory regimes include a Large Public Service (LPSV) Licence/Test, a Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test, a Road Passenger Operators Licence, and a Passenger Route Licence.
My Department has responsibility for policy oversight for the Large Public Service Vehicle (LPSV) sector. The Department however currently has no oversight role with regard to operational aspects of the LPSV licensing regime as it is carried out by An Garda Síochána.
PSV Officers of An Garda Síochána carry out Large Public Service Vehicle (LPSV) inspections to determine the suitability of a bus for use as an LPSV before it can be licensed, and a subsequent inspection at each licence renewal period. The licence is valid for 3 years, unless otherwise provided for by the PSV officer.
The applicant must be a fit and proper person (having regard to character and previous conduct) and the vehicle safe for the carriage of passengers. The technical examination considers the vehicle's specification, age and condition.
As you are aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the licensing regime for Large Public Service Vehicles (LPSVs), with the aim of streamlining and improving the overall process and eliminating duplication across various testing regimes, including Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Testing (CVRT).
As part of this process, my Department will also be required to make legislative amendments to implement the outcomes of the review.
Work will continue on the LPSV review in 2026.
Question No. 131 answered with Question No. 130.
Transport Policy
Questions (132)
Ryan O'Meara
Question:132. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Transport if he will reconsider the decision not to introduce any financial support or remediation scheme for passenger transport operators who retrofitted smart tachograph version 2 devices before his Department issued its updated guidance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72608/25]
View answerWritten answers
The EU 'Mobility Package I' introduced a new set of rules for the road transport sector and is applicable across the EU. The package ensures good implementation and enforcement of EU road transport legislation and provides a balance between the social protection of drivers and the freedom of operators to provide cross-border transport services.
As part of the 'Mobility Package I', smart tachographs version 2 must be retrofitted to commercial vehicles, including buses, operating internationally within the EU from 31 December 2024 onwards. Full details of the categories of vehicles to which the 'Mobility Package I' applies is available through the Road Safety Authority website. This includes detail on deadlines by which upgrades must be completed and the requirements surrounding international transport.
I acknowledge there are costs involved with upgrading tachographs, but this is a necessary once-off investment for commercial bus operators to comply with their legal obligations as set out in the EU Mobility Package I. The cost entailed by the retrofit is a commercial matter for each commercial operator and is determined by a number of factors, including the age, make, and model of the vehicles to be updated.
My officials continue to assess the development of advice issued to operators, and the position of operators who may have already retrofitted their vehicles, and will engage further with affected passenger operators on a case-by-case basis as appropriate.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland
Questions (133)
Martin Kenny
Question:133. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the reason the S2 bus which runs in Sligo town is not operating as it should, leaving students without access to vital local links in the area for their studies in ATU (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72609/25]
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. I understand the importance of safety considerations for passengers when using public transport services, 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.
However, 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Coastal Erosion
Questions (134)
Malcolm Byrne
Question:134. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on work to prevent coastal erosion of the Rosslare rail line; the total amount spent on such works since 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72612/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Projects (ECRIPP).
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Departmental Meetings
Questions (135)
Malcolm Byrne
Question:135. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Transport the number of commuter representative groups he has met since appointment to office. [72613/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport I meet regularly with a variety of interested citizens, specific interest groups, transport providers and other relevant stakeholders.
These meetings can occur in a variety of settings, such as bilateral meetings which can be viewed on my published diary, at working groups and other fora organised by my Department, such as the Public Transport Safety Working Group or indeed the many conferences and events I attend.
Road Tolls
Questions (136, 137)
Sorca Clarke
Question:136. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport if he will review tolling arrangements on the M4, including financial impacts on midlands commuters; and if reductions will be considered. [72645/25]
View answerSorca Clarke
Question:137. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport to provide the annual revenue generated from the M4 toll over the past five years; and to clarify when any concession is due for review. [72646/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 136 and 137 together.
As 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.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Question No. 137 answered with Question No. 136.
Rail Network
Questions (138)
Sorca Clarke
Question:138. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport to outline Irish Rail's plans to increase passenger capacity on the Dublin-Sligo line, particularly at peak commuting times for Longford and Mullingar. [72647/25]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Questions (139)
Sorca Clarke
Question:139. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport if investment in additional carriages or enhanced frequency is planned for the Sligo line, and whether platform upgrades are under consideration. [72648/25]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy may be aware, the All-Island Strategic Rail Review was undertaken in co-operation with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Following two public consultations, the Review’s Final Report was published in July 2024.
The Review's Final Report sets out 32 strategic recommendations to enhance and expand the rail system in Ireland and Northern Ireland up to 2050, aligning with net carbon zero commitments in both jurisdictions. The recommendations seek to transform the quality of the rail system to the benefit of passengers and wider society on the island, through additional track capacity, electrification, increased speeds, higher service frequencies and new routes.
Assisted by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Advisory Services, the Department of Transport and Department for Infrastructure, and agencies across the island, are working to progress the Report’s recommendations in the years ahead. As part of this work a Project Prioritisation Strategy was developed and published on 15th December.
The Strategy considers how best to optimise the sequencing and implementation of the Review recommendations, including both short-term interventions and longer-term projects. Amongst the early interventions called out in the Strategy are additional platforms at Sligo and Enfield on the Sligo rail line, as well as an additional track passing loop between Sligo and Boyle which will increase the resilience and capacity of the line in the short term. These recommendations will be delivered over the period 2026 to 2030, with funding provided in the National Development Plan (NDP) Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport, which was published by the Department of Transport in November.
National Transport Authority
Questions (140)
James Geoghegan
Question:140. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Transport if he will ask the National Transport Authority to address issues outlined in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72662/25]
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.
BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the state and is managed by the NTA. The aim of the network is to improve the existing Transport for Ireland system through enhanced services with high frequency spines and new local, Orbital and Radial routes.
It is acknowledged that reliability has been a key concern during the initial rollout of Phase 7, with challenges primarily linked to traffic congestion on new city-centre alignments and driver availability. When implementing new phases of the BusConnects network, the NTA continuously monitors services, identifies any issues that arise, and puts in fixes where appropriate. My Department will continue to work with the NTA to ensure the redesigned network delivers on its objectives and its performance is closely monitored.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have also 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.
Departmental Inquiries
Questions (141)
Michael Cahill
Question:141. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport if the walkway/cycleway connecting Killarney with the Gap of Dunloe can be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72675/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways and Active Travel infrastructure. The planning, design, and construction of individual walkways and cycleways being funded by the Department of Transport is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority (NTA), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
I understand that neither the TII nor the NTA currently have a scheme relating to a walkway/ cycleway connecting Killarney with the Gap of Dunloe. For new projects to be considered, Kerry County Council would need to carry out an initial assessment on the rationale for the proposal and, if appropriate, submit a request to TII or the NTA for the provision of funds. This would then be assessed for feasibility and prioritisation against all other applications for funding.
Departmental Inquiries
Questions (142)
Sorca Clarke
Question:142. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport the status of major transport capital projects, including current stage, expected completion dates, and whether any delays or cost overruns have been reported. [72688/25]
View answerWritten answers
The National Development Plan Sectoral Implementation Plan for Transport was published on 26th November 2025. This plan contains lists all exchequer funded projects with a cost estimate of greater than €200m.
The information contained includes key information such as the current stage of the project, the procurement timeline, the construction timeline and the cost range. The schedule for public transport is on p. 22-23 and the schedule for roads is on p. 27-29. The Plan can be accessed at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-transport/publications/national-development-plan-review-2025-sectoral-investment-plan/
Traffic Management
Questions (143)
Eoghan Kenny
Question:143. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Transport if his Department and Transport Infrastructure Ireland have any plans, as of December 2025, to introduce traffic calming measures at Clonbanin Cross, Mallow, County Cork, similar to the measures that have been introduced at Johnsbridge, County Cork, P51 WR29; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72692/25]
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 N72 at Clonbanin Cross.
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.
Air Navigation Orders
Questions (144)
Barry Ward
Question:144. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the powers he has to determine the permissions which are given to any aircraft to fly through Irish airspace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72719/25]
View answerWritten answers
The right or permission for air operators to operate in and through Irish sovereign airspace is largely governed by a range of agreements and conventions to which the State has decided to become party to.
The Convention on International Civil Aviation 1944 (Chicago Convention) confers the right for non-scheduled flights to both overfly and make stops for technical purposes in the territories of its contracting parties. 193 States are party to the Chicago Convention.
The International Air Services Transit Agreement 1944 affords these same rights to scheduled flights, approximately 135 States are party to this Agreement.
Within the EU, the air operators of Member States are provided the freedom to operate air services within the territory of the union in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008.
Beyond the EU, the movement of commercial traffic, passengers and cargo by air, is managed through a framework of bilateral or multilateral agreements that the State is party to. These agreements grant rights to operate commercial air transport between the contracting parties. Privately operated and general aviation flights are not within scope of any of the aforementioned agreements and do not require permission to enter Irish airspace.
The exception to the above rights occurs when civil aircraft intend to carry munitions of war. Under the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Orders 1973 and 1989. the carriage of munitions of war on civil aircraft in Irish sovereign territory or on Irish-registered civil aircraft wherever they may be operating is prohibited, unless an exemption to do so is granted by the Minister for Transport.
The operation of foreign military aircraft in Irish sovereign territory is a matter for the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
International Relations
Questions (145)
Barry Ward
Question:145. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the actions which have been taken or are anticipated against Belarus in relation to an aircraft (details supplied) that was grounded in Minsk in May 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72723/25]
View answerWritten answers
Ryanair Flight FR4978 from Athens International Airport, Greece, to Vilnius Airport, Lithuania was forced by Belarusian air traffic control to land in Belarus on 23 May 2021. The Ryanair flight was a regular scheduled route operated by Ryanair’s subsidiary Buzz, which is licensed in Poland. The aircraft was registered in Poland.
The reason for the forced landing was due to alleged claims of a bomb on board the aircraft. Upon landing in Belarus two passengers on board, journalist Roman Protasevich and his girlfriend Sofia Sapega, were arrested by authorities.
On 24 and 25 May 2021, the European Council adopted conclusions in which it strongly condemned the forced landing of the flight, endangering aviation safety, as well as condemning the detention by Belarusian authorities of Roman Pratasevich and Sofia Sapega. Following these conclusions the Council adopted additional listings of persons and entities to the restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus. In June 2021, Regulation (EC) 765 of 2006 was amended to prohibit any aircraft operated by Belarusian air carriers to land in, take off from or overfly the territory of the European Union. On 24 May that year the EU Aviation Safety Agency issued a safety directive formally halting European airlines from flying in Belarusian airspace. Criminal investigations were also initiated by the Polish and Lithuanian authorities.
The Council of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is a United Nations body responsible for the safety of global aviation, established a Fact-Finding Investigation Team (FFIT) to investigate the events. The FFIT were charged with establishing the facts of what happened and understanding whether there had been any breach by any ICAO Member State of international aviation law, including the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention) and its annexes.
In January 2022, the FFIT published its report which concluded that the bomb threat was deliberately false and further noted that the FFIT was not provided with all information by Belarus for the purpose of its investigation. In August 2022, the ICAO Council approved a draft paper for submission to the 41st ICAO Assembly which took place in October that year. At the Assembly, the findings of the ICAO FFIT Report were endorsed and the Assembly condemned the actions of Belarus. The Assembly also requested the ICAO Council to remain seized of the matter and to report back to Assembly as appropriate. The President of the ICAO Council also sent the FFIT report and the text of the Assembly Decisions to the UN Secretary General on 12 August 2022. Belarus was requested to address the FFIT findings but has thus far rejected the report findings.
EU Regulations
Questions (146)
Cian O'Callaghan
Question:146. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the implementation of EU Regulation 2018/858, in particular, the introduction of a national conformity assessment body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72763/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that the Department is currently progressing the draft European Union (Motor Vehicle Type-Approval - Criteria for IO Approval and IO Employee Authorisation) Regulations 2025. The draft regulations are at the final stages of preparation and are expected to be signed shortly.
The Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) will appoint the National Standards Authority of Ireland as the conformity assessment body responsible for implementation of the SERMI scheme in Ireland. As the INAB operates under the Health and Safety Authority, which is a state agency within the remit of the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, the Department of Transport is not in a position to comment on the timeframes for this appointment.