Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
313. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport whether the NTA have been provided with resources to increase local link services beyond the resources included in the connecting Ireland rural mobility plan in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5759/26]
View answerAs 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) also has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including allocating funding to Transport Coordination Units.
My Department supports the continued investment in rural transport in line with the commitment in the Programme for Government to continue delivering on the foundational public transport services introduced under the flagship Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, with €31 million ringfenced for the rural transport programme, a 38% increase on last year’s funding.
Accordingly, the Department’s significant 2026 allocation prioritises the advancement of ongoing programmes and commitments in line with operational readiness and resource availability. The Department continues to engage with the NTA as they finalise their 2026 service plan, ensuring that planning and strategic decisions are informed by both operational and resource considerations.
