Paul Donnelly
Question:311. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the policy around the operation of drones. [73279/25]
View answerTransport Policy
Questions (311)
Written answers
I launched the National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems on 20 August 2025. The Policy Framework aims to guide high-level strategic planning and development of the UAS sector in Ireland, through supporting growth and innovation, while ensuring safe and secure operations and managing environmental and other concerns. The Policy Framework seeks to identify and address any policy, regulatory or legislative gaps that may have arisen due to increased expansion of drone operations.
Many of the issues addressed by the Policy Framework fall directly within the remit of my department, while other issues will cross-over into areas of responsibility of other Government Departments and agencies. The Policy Framework aims to facilitate consideration of how matters such as planning and environmental issues will be addressed by the appropriate authorities. It provides for a number of structures and actions that aim to address concerns in relation to increasing drone usage and operations in balance with the realisation of the economic and societal benefits from the emerging drone sector. This will include ensuring that appropriate authorities have the required regulatory powers and that they have mechanisms in place to ensure that the views of all stakeholders are taken into account.
Implementation of the Policy Framework relies on cross-government structures and the continuation of engagement and support from various government departments, agencies, the UAS sector and the public. The Policy Framework recognises the important role local authorities have in the development and roll out of drone operations in their communities. The policy framework also recognises the importance of ongoing collaboration and engagement with a wide range of stakeholders.
My department has recently invited nominations from relevant Departments and agencies to an overall Policy Framework Implementation Monitoring Group and is developing the first of the annual implementation plans provided for in the Policy Framework.
Dublin Bus
Questions (312)
Mark Ward
Question:312. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport the number of electrified buses Dublin Bus has in service; the number not in service; the number of garages Dublin Bus operate; the number of these garages that have capacity to charge electric buses; the number of charging points Dublin Bus has in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73282/25]
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 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.
Legislative Measures
Questions (313)
Cian O'Callaghan
Question:313. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the Horse-Drawn Carriages Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73314/25]
View answerWritten answers
My Department remains committed to progressing legislation that will replace the Dublin Carriage Act 1853 to ensure that the Dublin City Council is provided with an appropriate legal basis to regulate this area, and the Bill remains on the Government’s legislative programme.
Some initial scoping work on the Bill has taken place, but is at an early stage due to other primary transport legislation being progressed currently. It is anticipated that consultation with Stakeholders in relation to the drafting of the Bill will take place in 2026.
It is important to note that other legislation is in place in relation to animal welfare matters which are dealt with by the Department for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013, people in possession of a protected animal, including horses, must ensure the animal is kept and treated in a manner that safeguards their health and welfare. Failure to do this is considered an offence under that Act.
In addition, section 33 of the Control of Horses Act 1996 provides that An Garda Siochána may compel individuals in control of horses to obtain necessary attention from a veterinarian if the horse is in pain, distress, neglect or is severely injured, diseased or in need of veterinary attention. Failure to comply is an offence.
Furthermore, the drivers of all vehicles used on public roads, including horse-drawn carriages, are required to comply with road traffic legislation and to behave in a safe manner paying due care to other road users. The enforcement of such road traffic legislation is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
Road Projects
Questions (314)
Sean Fleming
Question:314. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding a proposed road, details supplied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73315/25]
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.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply regarding the Portlaoise Northern Orbital Route. 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 (315)
Emer Currie
Question:315. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport the internal processes for the rollout of a project (details supplied); when this process will begin for a specific phase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73400/25]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities, including Dublin. BusConnects is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State and is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA).
Following on from three rounds of public consultation which concluded in 2020, new bus services in Dublin have been delivered, with the first seven phases of the Network Redesign rolled out in recent years. The most recent phase, Phase 7, which commenced in October 2025, saw the introduction of the F Spine connecting Finglas to Tallaght.
Matters relating to bus service delivery and planning, including the B Spine, fall under the remit of the NTA, in co-operation with the relevant transport operator, and are subject to funding and/or resource availability.
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.
Rail Network
Questions (316)
Louise O'Reilly
Question:316. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if future planning for a new train station namely the reopening of Ardgillan/Balbriggan south train station, will be considered to accommodate the future development by the Land Development Agency of Castlelands, Balbriggan; if he is aware that the development of the site will see an increase in population of up to 2,000 people to the existing population of 29,000, as part of investment in public transport in north Fingal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73436/25]
View answerWritten answers
As 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 and stations along the DART line.
The DART+ Coastal North project will benefit the existing rail station at Balbriggan, increasing train capacity and frequency. Planning approval for DART+ Coastal North was granted by An Coimisiún Pleanála in August 2025.
The NDP Sectoral Implementation Plan, which was published by my Department in November, notes that there is potential to commence works on elements of DART+ Coastal North, including supporting infrastructure such as track passing loops and a new platform at Drogheda station over the period 2026-2030, in advance of works on Overhead Line Equipment (OHLE) .
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, including Balbriggan.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders
Bus Services
Questions (317)
Ruth Coppinger
Question:317. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Transport to consider increasing the frequency of the 40E Dublin Bus route; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73454/25]
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 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Projects
Questions (318)
Brendan Smith
Question:318. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he has received any recent update from the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland in relation to the urgent need to progress the proposed upgrade of the A5; if there is an indicative timeline for the drawdown of committed funding from his Department for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73477/25]
View answerWritten answers
The planning and implementation of the A5 upgrade project is the responsibility of the authorities in Northern Ireland.
The funding arrangements in relation to the A5 were governed by the 2014 Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan - A Fresh Start, and under this Agreement the Government had previously committed to provide funding of £75 million towards the cost of the A5 upgrade scheme once the statutory planning process in Northern Ireland was concluded. It was announced on February 20th 2024 that as part of Government funding commitments for Shared Island projects, €600 million was being committed for the progression of the A5 project.
The planning and implementation of the A5 upgrade project is the responsibility of the authorities in Northern Ireland. As such, the matter of the overall cost of the project is for the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. It estimates that the total scheme cost for the A5 project is c. £1.6 billion. I can confirm that my Department regularly engages with colleagues in the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. These engagements consider a range of North/South transport proposals, including the A5.
The A5 project was approved by the Northern Ireland Executive on October 2nd 2024. On the 30th of June 2025, the High Court overturned the decision by the Department of Infrastructure to proceed with the first phase of the A5 dual carriageway project. I understand that the Department for Infrastructure has lodged an appeal against this judgement, which is currently underway.
Bus Services
Questions (319)
Niamh Smyth
Question:319. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 271 of 4 November 2025, the anticipated timeframe for a decision on the provision of additional or revised bus stop facilities at Ardkill Place, Ballinagh, County Cavan, under the bus stop enhancement programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73497/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the provision of bus stops/shelters 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.
Driver Licences
Questions (320)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:320. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport when an application for exchange of a driving licence will be finalised (details supplied). [73498/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that all enquiries relating to driver licensing are handled by the National Driver Licence Service, the provision of which I have delegated under national legislation to the Road Safety Authority.
Given its responsibility for this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Authority for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
Air Services
Questions (321)
Pearse Doherty
Question:321. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport the number of flights from Donegal to Dublin, and Dublin to Donegal Airports that were significantly delayed in 2025; the reasons given for each incidence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73525/25]
View answerWritten answers
The current Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service contract in place on the Donegal-Dublin route provides twice daily two-way air services. This Exchequer funded service facilitates same day return trips from Donegal and further international connectivity from Dublin Airport. As well as marking this Government’s commitment to ensuring continued connectivity to this region, these services also support growth of the economy and tourism in the region.
Over the January-November 2025 reporting period, a total of 1,335 PSO flights were scheduled to operate. Of the scheduled flights, 108 were delayed by 30 minutes or more. This amounts to an 8% delay rate over this period, with approximately 6% as a result of technical issues and other issues attributable to the carrier and 2% due to weather and other issues not attributable to the carrier.
The performance standard provided under the contract for the provision of PSO air service on this routes is 10% for flights delayed by 30 minutes or more. My Department continues to monitor the performance of this route in accordance with the PSO contract for the provision of these services.
Road Network
Questions (322)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:322. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to increase national road capacity during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73570/25]
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 2025, a number of major new national road projects continued to progress. Construction continued on the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge, and main construction contracts were signed for the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy and Adare Bypass projects. Together with the progression of projects at an earlier stage of the development lifecycle, and measures to safeguard the existing national road network, this demonstrates the commitment of Government to ensuring the network can continue to meet the needs of all road users.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a detailed reply detailing measures taken in 2025. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Road Network
Questions (323)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:323. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to support the local and regional road network during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73571/25]
View answerWritten answers
The 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.
As outlined in the 2025 Regional and Local Roads Grant Programme which I announced on the 14th of February this year, the Government is strongly committed to protecting the existing regional and local road network. This network is fundamental in maintaining social and economic connectivity, linking people and places across the country.
Irelands regional and local road network spans over 96,000kms. The network requires significant funding to ensure it remains fit for purpose, safe and resilient. As such, €713 million was allocated to regional and local road grants in 2025, with approximately 90% of this funding being directed towards maintenance and renewal works. This represents an overall increase of over 8% in funding this year.
This funding has supported local authorities in carrying out an extensive 2025 programme of maintenance and restoration works. Funding also supported various safety improvement works, bridge rehabilitation schemes, drainage works, climate adaptation measures, community involvement projects and the maintenance of former national roads.
In addition to maintenance, targeted improvements are a priority. In 2025, €47.8 million was allocated to investing in developing and upgrading this infrastructure through vital Strategic Grant projects which are continuing to be progressed. These include projects identified for development under the National Development Plan such as the Tralee Northern Relief Road and the Coonagh to Knockalisheen Distributor Road.
An additional €22.2 million was allocated for smaller-scale road improvements under the Specific Grant category.
As regards 2026, regional and local road grant allocations will be finalised following the publication of the Revised Estimates Volume and will take into account the expenditure outturn on projects and programmes in the preceding year. The main focus of the grants continues to be the protection and renewal of the regional and local road network.
Active Travel
Questions (324)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:324. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to develop active travel during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73572/25]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
The Government is committed to the provision of improved and expanded walking and cycling infrastructure both in our urban centres and in towns and villages across Ireland. In 2021, the Active Travel Infrastructure Programme was expanded to include the 19 local authority areas outside the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and the regional cities. Since then, over €1 billion has been invested in walking and cycling projects across the country.
€290 million was allocated to the NTA's Active Travel and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme alone in 2025 with actual spend reaching over €296 million invested in around 1,000 projects nationwide. Key projects completed this year include two phases of the Royal Canal Greenway, the Bray DART Interchange, the Battery Road Active Travel Scheme in Longford and the Marina Promenade and Mahon Active Travel scheme in Cork. In addition, the funding supported numerous junction upgrades and the installation of new pedestrian crossings, all of which improve pedestrian and cyclists safety.
I was delighted to secure a similar funding for Active Travel in Budget 2026, meaning that we can continue to progress walking and cycling projects around Ireland into next year. Projects due to be completed in 2026 include the Glanmire Urban Greenway in Cork, the Kilmacrennan Road Active Travel Scheme in Donegal and the Ballybane and Castlepark Cycle Network in Galway City. Work is expected to start on a number of key Active Travel schemes next year such as the Finglas Village Improvement Scheme, Living Streets Phase 2 in Dun Laoghaire and Sarsfield Road to MTU in Cork.
As part of the allocations determination, the NTA liaises with each local authority to fully understand the projects being proposed by the local authority and its considerations in terms of priorities. In general, the main focus of active travel investment will be to support high quality walking and cycling infrastructure, for everyday trips, in villages, towns and cities, particularly in designated growth settlements, with a view to promoting the greatest potential modal shift to active travel.
Given the ramping up of activities over the last few years in the Active Travel area, the number of projects being progressed now exceeds the level of funding made available to the NTA. Accordingly, the NTA is unable to fully fund all proposed Active Travel projects and has to prioritise certain projects over others in order to remain within its allocated budget. While a project may not be selected by the NTA for funding in a particular year, it may be funded in subsequent years.
Bus Services
Questions (325, 326, 328)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:325. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to support and develop bus services during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73573/25]
View answerSeán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:326. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to support and develop rail services during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73574/25]
View answerSeán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:328. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to support affordability in public transport during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73576/25]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 325, 326 and 328 together.
My Department is responsible for implementing a wide range of commitments in the Programme for Government: Securing Our Future and plays a crucial role in supporting other cross-government commitments. We continue to make steady progress in our ambitious infrastructure and service delivery plans. I wish to reassure the Deputy that improving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) plays a central role in achieving this, as they have 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.
As Minister for Transport, my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide. The 2026 PSO funding allocation of c. €940 million represents a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from 2025. This reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that public transport services can continue to operate reliably and sustainably in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs.
This allocation will also allow for the continued delivery of targeted fare initiatives, this year I introduced free travel for all children up to the age of 9 and continued the Young Adult Card for those aged 19–25, as part of the NTA’s National Fares Strategy. These measures, which will be continued in 2026, help ensure that public transport remains accessible and affordable for families, students, and young workers across the country.
€31 million has been secured for rural transport in 2026 – a 38% increase on last year’s funding. This ensures the continued delivery of vital services across rural Ireland, to meet demand in communities that depend on these services most.
In parallel, investment has continued to support the rollout of planned improvements within the existing network, such as the recently launched F Spine under Phase 7 of BusConnects. This phase introduces high-frequency, 24-hour bus services on key corridors, including routes F1, F2, and F3, enhancing connectivity between areas such as Tallaght, Finglas, Charlestown, and the city centre. The redesign also includes new radial and local routes to streamline and make the network more efficient.
Regarding bus infrastructure, construction on the Liffey Valley to City Centre Core Bus Corridor scheme will commence this month with a view to full completion by 2028. In addition, following the approval of the Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre Core Bus Corridor scheme at Approval Gate 3 under the Infrastructure Guidelines in November and the signing of the construction contract in December, construction is expected to commence in 2026.
Regarding rail, in April, a new ‘through’ platform at Kent station in Cork opened, which was a key landmark in the delivery of the Cork Commuter Rail Project. The public consultation on Phase 2 of the Programme launched in June, including proposals for eight new stations, a new fleet maintenance depot and full electrification of the network to support more frequent, reliable and sustainable rail transport for Cork. A public consultation for the emerging preferred route for Luas Cork was launched on 14th April. The newest DART station, Woodbrook, opened in August.
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.
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 15 December.
The Strategy outlines how to best sequence and optimise the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, and specifies short-term rail infrastructure investments, referred to as Early Interventions, to be delivered in the coming years. These include a series of new track passing loops and platforms to boost the rail network’s resilience and capacity. Work on these projects in Ireland will start next year, for full delivery by 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.
The Strategy also identifies Major Projects to be progressed for the longer-run, involving intercity electrification and significant capacity upgrades on the rail network. These Major Projects include “FourNorth”, to add track capacity on the busy Northern line north of Connolly station; electrification and line speed improvements on the Dublin-Cork and Dublin-Belfast routes, and reinstatement of lines including the Western Rail Corridor between Claremorris to Athenry.
Question No. 326 answered with Question No. 325.
Air Services
Questions (327)
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:327. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the key measures taken to support and develop aviation services during 2025; his priorities for 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73575/25]
View answerWritten answers
The Government recognises the crucial role of international air connectivity and is committed to fostering an environment that supports the aviation sector's development. The Programme for Government (PfG) acknowledges that as an island nation with a dispersed population and an open economy, good connectivity within the country and with the rest of the world is essential to foster continued economic growth, for communities, and our tourism industry.
The 2015 National Aviation Policy (NAP) established a policy framework for the development of the aviation sector in Ireland. While the principal goals of the 2015 NAP remain valid, and it continues to guide decision-making, the Department of Transport has commenced preparatory work on revising the NAP, with a view to progressing same in 2026. The revised NAP will update existing policy in response to developments in the aviation sector since 2015 and will include a focus on maximising use of our regional airports, in line with commitments made in the Programme for Government (PfG).
The NAP recognises the role of regional airports in supporting connectivity and regional development and commits to encouraging airports to attract new business, to achieve excellence in the delivery of service and value for passengers and airlines, and to make a sustainable contribution to their respective local economies and communities. Government recognises that as employers, airports contribute to the local economy, employment is also supported through the various ancillary services that are provided to airports.
In line with this, Government has provided significant supports to regional airports under the Regional Airports Programme 2021-2025, with €17million in combined current and capital supports made available in 2025. Funding under this Programme is targeted at safety and security related activities and operations. Projects with a sustainability focus are also supported, encouraging airports meet their carbon emission reduction targets and build resilience against the likely impacts of climate change. A Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service between Donegal and Dublin airports is also supported under this Programme.
While the current Regional Airports Programme will expire at the end of 2025, the PfG commits to continue to invest in the Regional Airports Programme and to develop a new Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030. This work is progressing as a matter of priority, with a view to the new Programme being in place early in the new year. A further €17million in combined current and capital supports will support continued investment in regional airports under this new Programme in 2026.
In addition, the PfG includes a commitment to engage with relevant stakeholders to establish air connectivity between Dublin and City of Derry airports. As part of the objectives of Building a Shared Island, my Department is progressing the preparatory work necessary to establish a Dublin-Derry PSO air service in 2026. Stakeholder engagement is also vital and in this regard a market sounding exercise is being finalised by my Department for publication shortly. I look forward to the delivery of this new service, which will provide subsidised transport connectivity for Derry and North East Donegal and complement the Donegal-Dublin PSO air service which serves the West Donegal region.
The Government is in favour of increasing the capacity of Dublin Airport, in line with the NAP, which recognises the strategic importance of Dublin Airport to meeting national social and economic policy goals. The PfG includes a clear commitment to working with stakeholders to achieve the objective of lifting the passenger cap at Dublin Airport as soon as possible. In this regard, I secured support from my colleagues in Cabinet to pursue a legislative course of action to address the passenger cap in line with that commitment. Work has commenced on the preparation of legislation to address this, and I intend to bring Heads of a Bill to Cabinet shortly to seek agreement on the proposed legislative approach and to progress to formal drafting.
I am committed to introducing the legislation as soon as possible to ensure that it can be prioritised both in terms of drafting and then in terms of its passage through the Oireachtas, to ensure continued sustainable growth in connectivity for the benefit of our economy.
Continuing with the theme of sustainability, 2025 saw the publication of Ireland’s first Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Policy Roadmap, fulfilling a clear commitment in the PfG. The Roadmap represents an important first step in developing Ireland’s national SAF policy, identifying a number of actions which will be built upon in future iterations, and setting a path for future SAF policy development.
A significant milestone was the publication in August 2025 of our National Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or UAS, commonly referred to as drones. The Policy Framework focusses on focus on i) the use of the airspace and planning, ii) compliance and enforcement, and iii) enterprise and innovation.
While the operation of any scheduled air service is a commercial decision for airlines, it is the responsibility of my Department to ensure that the appropriate frameworks are in place to facilitate such operations. Work has advanced in 2025 at official level with a number of third country partners towards the development of new bilateral air service agreements which will provide the framework to underpin the operation of air services to/from these third countries. In 2026, I expect a number of these international agreements to be brought to Government for consideration, while in other cases, negotiations will continue at a technical level.
In terms of EU policy, a revision of EU Regulation 261 of 2004 on the rights of air passengers in the event of denied boarding, cancellation and long delay of flights was progressed significantly in 2025. A "general approach" text of a revised regulation was agreed by EU Transport Ministers at a Transport Council meeting in June 2025. The text is now undergoing trilogue negotiations with the European Parliament, with the aim of reaching a final compromise. Ireland is supportive of the Council-approved text, which strengthens passengers’ rights while also keeping the industry competitive and innovative.
Ireland will assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on 1 July 2026 and my Department is engaged in the whole-of-government effort to deliver a successful Irish Presidency.
Question No. 328 answered with Question No. 325.
Taxi Regulations
Questions (329)
Pa Daly
Question:329. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the engagements he has had with the taxi industry in relation to the introduction of the fixed fare model since the six day set of disruptions was called off; the dates on which these meetings took place; who was present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73652/25]
View answerWritten answers
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is the independent transport regulator of the taxi sector, and I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of that sector.
I wrote to the NTA in November to request clarification on the regulatory position on the Uber fixed price fare for the information of taxi operators and public representatives alike. In its response to my letter, I was advised by the NTA that the charging of a fixed fare is in accordance with the applicable regulations. I have also been advised that the NTA continues to keep the regulatory model under review. Senior officials from my department met with the NTA to discuss the response on 09 December last.
I also formally requested the urgent consideration of the matter at a special meeting of the Advisory Committee on Small Public Service Vehicles, (whose role is to advise the Minister for Transport and NTA on matters relevant to SPSVs and their drivers), which took place on 11 December last.
Minutes of this meeting and the list of attendees will be published on the NTA's website here: www.nationaltransport.ie/about-us/advisory-committee-on-spsvs/advisory-committee-on-small-public-service-vehicles-meetings/ when available
The structure of the SPSV market has undoubtedly changed over the last number of years, particularly in relation to the role of dispatch operators. With this in mind, I have requested that the NTA conducts a regulatory assessment of dispatch operator licensing in Ireland in the context of ensuring that the regulatory framework for this element of the overall sector is sufficiently up to date and robust to respond to developments in the SPSV market since the enactment of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. In addition, I have requested that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to feed into this work as soon as possible, and I intend to meet representatives of the taxi sector in the coming weeks.
Road Safety
Questions (330)
Pa Daly
Question:330. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is taking to address the fact the number of road deaths in 2025 has outstripped 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73653/25]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State with responsibility for road safety, I must acknowledge that 2025 has been a very difficult year on Irish roads. Too many families and communities have faced tragedy as a result of road traffic collisions and every life lost is a reminder that road safety is not just about statistics - it is about people, loved ones and futures changed in an instant.
Road safety remains a core priority for me and this Government. The fifth Road Safety Strategy 2021–2030 sets a target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by the end of this decade and it shares the EU target of Vision Zero - no road deaths or serious injuries on our roads - by 2050. In July, I published the Phase 2 Action Plan under the Road Safety Strategy which will run to December 2027. It contains 12 primary and 77 supporting actions, with the potential to deliver real transformative change. All of these actions are grounded in the internationally recognised Safe Systems approach and will be delivered through partnership and collaborative working by road safety stakeholders.
Progress is being made. In February, the first implementation phase of the speed limit review was introduced, which saw the default speed limit on rural and local roads reduced from 80km/h to 60km/h. In October, local authorities were directed to review existing speed limits on roads in built-up and urban areas. Local authorities will, where appropriate, implement lower speed limits including the introduction of 30 km/h speed limits, such as on roads in cities and towns. Local authorities have been directed to conclude this process and have the new speed limits operational by 31 March 2027. This is in line with Action 5 of the Phase 2 Action Plan and supports the overall objective of the Road Safety Strategy of reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads by 50% by 2030.
This Government continues to invest significantly in road safety infrastructure and services. Budget 2026 provides €1.72 billion, an increase of €211 million, for national, regional and local roads, which includes safety-focused measures. There has also been a significant increase in spending on public awareness, communications and education campaigns by the RSA. In 2025, a ringfenced budget of €18m was set aside by for the RSA for these activities, and a similar budget will once again be ringfenced in 2026. This will ensure a continued focus on campaigns and educational initiatives with the aim of making our roads safer for all road users.
Long-standing issues are also being addressed, including in relation to multiple learner permits which, under current rules, allow individuals to repeatedly renew a permit without sitting a driving test. Regulations were signed last month to end this practice, with the changes coming in to effect in November 2026.
Key legislative reforms are progressing. In April, the Government approved the General Scheme of the National Vehicle and Driver File Bill, which will allow collision data to be shared with local authorities so blackspots can be identified and safety improvements prioritised. The Bill will also include an amendment allowing a jury to consider a charge of careless driving where an individual is acquitted of dangerous driving, as recommended by Judge Haughton in his report on the death of Shane O’Farrell.
My Department is also developing the next Road Traffic Bill to fulfil Programme for Government commitments, including in relation to graduated speeding penalties and camera-based enforcement of mobile phone and seatbelt offences. We are also working with the Law Reform Commission to consolidate road traffic law for the first time since 1961, which will provide a clearer legal framework for all those engaging with road traffic law.
Fuel Prices
Questions (331)
Pa Daly
Question:331. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is taking to reduce the cost of petrol and diesel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73654/25]
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At the outset, the Deputy should note that both I and the Government are conscious of the implications of fuel costs for all sectors of society.
As regards taxation, Ireland’s application of excise duty on fuel is governed by European Union law as set out in Directive 2003/96/EC, commonly known as the Energy Tax Directive. The Energy Tax Directive prescribes minimum excise duty rates for fuel with which all Member States must comply.
While taxation affects the final retail price of fuel, a number of factors also contribute to the final cost including energy market dynamics, wholesale pricing, individual retail pricing policy, transport costs, and exchange rate fluctuations. The best way of insulating our economy and society from fuel prices shocks is to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
The Government currently has incentives in place to promote investments in renewable and low-carbon energy products, such as HVO and other biofuels. Biofuels, such as Hydrotreatred Vegetable Oil (HVO), are relieved from the Carbon tax. This favourable tax treatment is intended to promote a higher level of biofuel usage and supports the Government’s commitment to incentivising more environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuels.
Furthermore, Carbon Tax revenues are ring-fenced for climate action and just transition measures. Analysis undertaken using SWITCH, the ESRI tax and benefit model, to simulate the impact of the carbon tax increase and the compensatory welfare package estimates that the net impact of the combined measures is progressive. Half of households are better off due to the measures part-funded by additional carbon tax funds, with households in the bottom four income deciles benefitting the most.
Bus Services
Questions (332)
Brendan Smith
Question:332. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the proposals to provide upgraded and additional services in 2026 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73671/25]
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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, including implementation of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. 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.
Bus Services
Questions (333)
Brendan Smith
Question:333. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that the National Transport Authority and/or Bus Éireann provide proper notification to commuters when there are changes to bus timetables; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73672/25]
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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.