Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
236. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the old Airport Hopper route in Dublin; if the NTA has considered providing a public replacement service; the public transport options available to the people of Dublin mid-west to get to Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13569/26]
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.
In circumstances where a commercial operator, such as the Airport Hopper service, ceases operating a specific route, the NTA undertakes an examination to determine whether, with the discontinuation of the commercial service, it is necessary for a replacement public service obligation (PSO) service to be introduced to ensure no loss of connectivity to the travelling public.
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.
