I am aware that recent analysis by INRIX indicates Galway ranks 71st globally for congestion. I also recognise the significant time lost due to traffic delays and the resulting impact on personal health and wellbeing as well as socio-economic factors.
A multi-faceted approach is needed to address congestion, having regard to both supply and demand. In relation to the ‘supply’ of sustainable alternatives such as public transport infrastructure and services, and for shorter journeys, active travel infrastructure, and shared mobility options, this Government is investing in a significant number of transformative projects over the next five years.
Approximately €10.1 billion will be invested in public transport infrastructure from 2026 to 2030. This investment package marks a major increase in public transport capital funding, more than double the level seen in the previous five years and 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.
Within this context, I hope to publish a new strategy, Moving Together, in early 2026. Subject to Government approval, the Strategy will help to unlock the full potential of the Government’s investment in sustainable mobility options by prioritising these modes in urban centres, which is in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
Within their remit the NTA is currently developing the Galway Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (GMATS), in conjunction with Galway City and County Council. As part of GMATS, feasibility studies on light rail and strategic roads have been completed and the findings suggest a potential case for light rail under certain conditions. The NTA will await An Coimisiún Pleanála’s decision on the re-submitted N6 Galway City Ring Road before finalising GMATS, which will then go to public consultation. In the meantime, implementation of the current Galway Transport Strategy will continue.
The proposed N6 Galway city Ring Road comprises 12.5km of motorway between the existing N6 at Coolagh (northeast of the city) to the existing Ballymoneen Road (northwest of the city) and continues as a single carriageway road for a further 5km of protected road, west of Bearna. The new orbital route travels around the city and will include a new bridge crossing of the River Corrib. This project will divert traffic away from Galway city and is currently in the planning and design phase.
Concerning bus services, BusConnects, which 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 NTA published its final new bus network for Galway in December 2023. The redesign of the bus network is one of the key elements of BusConnects Galway, which aims to transform the city’s bus system, making public transport more useful to more people.
Over €290 million was allocated by the Department of Transport to the NTA in 2025 for Active Travel measures around the country. The NTA works with local authorities to identify walking and cycling projects around the country, allocates funding accordingly and oversees infrastructure delivery.
Of the total 2025 funding, €8 million was allocated to Galway City Council to progress various active travel projects including, but not limited to, the Bothair Stiofain Active Travel Scheme, Ballybane and Castlepark Active Travel Scheme and various junction upgrades and urban realm improvements. 2026 funding allocations will be announced in the coming days.
