Thomas Gould
Question:281. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the number of drones currently allowed to operate drone delivery services in the State. [16245/26]
View answerAir Services
Questions (281, 282, 283, 284)
Thomas Gould
Question:282. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport whether he approves licences for drone delivery services. [16247/26]
View answerThomas Gould
Question:283. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the regulations that exist for drone delivery services. [16249/26]
View answerThomas Gould
Question:284. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the number of complaints received about drone delivery services in 2025. [16251/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 281, 282, 283 and 284 together.
From an aviation safety perspective, the regulation of both the recreational and commercial use of unmanned aircraft systems, commonly referred to as drones, is provided for under European Union regulations that are directly applicable in Ireland.
Two regulations, Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 and the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/947, set out common rules for the regulation of drones and drone operators, including training, licensing and registration.
• Regulation 2019/947 sets operational rules that apply to both professional drone operators and those flying drones for leisure.
• Regulation 2019/945 sets the common EU-wide technical requirements for drones, the features and capabilities that drones must have in order to be flown safely. This regulation also seeks to foster investment and innovation in this sector, through a harmonised framework across the European Union.
The aim of the EU UAS regulations is to achieve the same level of safety for UAS operations as in manned aviation. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), the civil aviation regulator, oversees the implementation and enforcement of the EU drone regulations and standards.
These EU UAS regulations are operation centric and focus on the risk of operations, i.e. the requirements for low-risk operations are less onerous than for higher risk operations. Under the EU regulatory regime, UAS operations are categorised under three broad types – Open, Specific and Certified - with different regulatory considerations applied across each type.
Commercial UAS operations, such as UAS delivery operations, are more closely regulated. These type of commercial UAS operation falls into the medium risk “specific” category and require specific authorisation by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). This type of authorisation is recognised in all EU Member States. To obtain an operational authorisation, an operator must provide a comprehensive safety portfolio which includes assessing and addressing both ground and air risks with appropriate mitigations.
In addition to complying with UAS drone regulations, drone operators must also comply with national laws, including environmental, planning and privacy laws
My Department has received correspondence from individuals, communities and public representatives raising concerns mainly in respect of privacy and noise nuisance in relation to UAS delivery operations.
The Government, aware that the impact of a growing UAS sector needed further consideration, included in the Programme for Government a commitment to guide high-level strategic planning and development of the UAS sector in Ireland. The Policy Framework for Unmanned Aircraft Systems which was published in August 2025 sets out a number of structures and actions that aim to address concerns in relation to increasing UAS usage and operations in balance with the realisation of the economic and societal benefits from the emerging drone sector. It aims to facilitate consideration of how matters such as planning and environmental issues will be addressed by the appropriate authorities. 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 is underway.
Question No. 282 answered with Question No. 281.
Question No. 283 answered with Question No. 281.
Question No. 284 answered with Question No. 281.
Departmental Data
Questions (285)
Michael Cahill
Question:285. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Transport to issue a permit at the earliest possible date in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16337/26]
View answerWritten answers
Disabled parking permits are available to people living in Ireland whose mobility is severely restricted, whether they are drivers or passengers, as well as to those who are registered blind. The scheme is administered by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland and the Irish Wheelchair Association.
Neither I nor my Department have any role in the day-to-day administration of the scheme or the processing of permits. Accordingly, the Department cannot intervene in individual cases and is not in a position to accelerate the processing of any application.
Road Safety
Questions (286)
Emer Currie
Question:286. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport if high-vis PPE will become mandatory for legal pedal-assist e-bikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16339/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that the Government decision of Wednesday 4 February noted that the Ministers for Transport would return to Government with proposals for updated regulations on e-scooters and e-bikes.
Regulations in relation to certain e-scooters and e-bikes were introduced in May 2024. As we approach the two-year anniversary of that date, it is appropriate that we look at the evidence and consider if additional regulation is warranted to promote road safety.
Proposals are being developed and will be subject to Ministerial decision. Requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) on e-scooters and e-bikes will form part of any consideration. The introduction of mandatory PPE for users of bicycles is outside the scope of the current measures.
Rail Network
Questions (287)
Roderic O'Gorman
Question:287. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Transport for an inventory of lands and properties owned by Irish Rail in the Dublin central area; the number that are currently in a state of vacancy or dereliction; and the land management/biodiversity strategy that is in place for unbuilt-on land. [16347/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport in Ireland.
The property affairs of Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are matters for the CIÉ Board in accordance with the provisions of the Transport Acts 1950 and 1964.
Accordingly, I have forwarded the aspect of the Deputy's question in relation to inventory of lands and properties to CIÉ for direct reply. I have forwarded the aspect of the Deputy's question in relation to land management and biodiversity strategy to Iarnród Éireann for direct reply.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Driver Test
Questions (288)
Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Question:288. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport the reason approved driving instructors are currently not permitted front/road facing dash cams, in order to ensure safety and recording of potential road traffic incidents where they arise, for their own safety and for the purposes of insurance. [16396/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is the regulatory body for driving instruction in Ireland. To work as a driving instructor, you must be on the RSA's Register of Approved Driving Instructors (ADI). In addition under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service, including all operational matters.
Given the RSA's responsibility in relation to regulating ADIs and in relation to the operation of the driver testing service, I have referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct, detailed response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Pension Provisions
Questions (289)
John Clendennen
Question:289. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the position regarding pensions within Córas Iompair Éireann (CIE) and its subsidiary companies; the current funding position of the CIÉ pension schemes; the engagement underway between his Department, the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitisation, and the relevant stakeholders on addressing pension sustainability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16425/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
Following on from the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward as of May 2025, my Department, alongside our financial and commercial advisors NewERA, are currently engaging with all relevant stakeholders. This includes CIÉ, the Pensions Authority and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the next steps in progressing the agreement and bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members, including review of the relevant statutory instruments and the matter of increases to pension payments.
My Department and all relevant stakeholders are endeavouring to achieve the same at the earliest, keeping in line with the appropriate procedures, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals as part of the formal process, which is now well underway.
Pension Provisions
Questions (290)
John Clendennen
Question:290. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport the latest actuarial assessment of the CIÉ pension schemes; the projected funding shortfall, if any; the measures being considered to ensure long-term financial sustainability; the expected timeline for decisions on the future structure and funding of these pensions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16427/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. As a commercial semi-state body, Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees.
Following on from the constructive and collaborative approach of the Trade Union Group and CIÉ management in reaching agreement on a pathway forward as of May 2025, my Department, alongside our financial and commercial advisors NewERA, are currently engaging with all relevant stakeholders. This includes CIÉ, the Pensions Authority and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation on the next steps in progressing the agreement and bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members, including review of the relevant statutory instruments and the matter of increases to pension payments.
My Department and all relevant stakeholders are endeavouring to achieve the same at the earliest, keeping in line with the appropriate procedures, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals as part of the formal process, which is now well underway.
In light of the CIÉ’s responsibility for the provision of pension schemes for their employees, I have forwarded the Deputy's queries to the CIÉ 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.
Road Projects
Questions (291)
John Clendennen
Question:291. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport if he will examine the feasibility of establishing a targeted footpath repair and upgrade fund within the 2027 roads programme, aimed at addressing defective and inaccessible footpaths and enhancing walkability, particularly for older persons and those with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16428/26]
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.
Investment in Active Travel infrastructure has increased significantly in recent years, with around €290 million allocated to the NTA for such projects this year alone. While the majority of this funding is dedicated to the development and construction of new walking and cycling infrastructure, a proportion was earmarked at the start of 2026 for protection and renewal of existing footpaths and cycle lanes.
While funding for the maintenance and upkeep of active travel infrastructure, which is a current funding stream, was not secured in Budget 2026 due to a high level of competing demands both within the Department of Transport and across Government, Department officials are working to identify alternative funding streams which could be utilised for this important purpose and will continue to seek funding as part of the annual estimates process.
Separately, while my Department provides grant support for road maintenance and renewal programmes under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme it does not have a specific grant programme for the restoration and repair of footpaths; however, local authorities have the option to fund these types of works from certain grant programmes.
Rail Network
Questions (292)
John Clendennen
Question:292. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the provision of catering services on the Irish Rail InterCity services, which currently have no catering service; the details of any progress made towards the provision of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16429/26]
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.
Air Services
Questions (293, 294, 295)
Barry Ward
Question:293. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding his engagement with Donegal cancer flights in relation to the proposed alteration to the PSO contract regarding flights provided for between Donegal and Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16430/26]
View answerBarry Ward
Question:294. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed alteration to the PSO contract between Donegal and Dublin (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16431/26]
View answerBarry Ward
Question:295. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the actions he will take to ensure that people that rely on the flights provided for under the PSO contract between Donegal and Dublin (details supplied) are not left without this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16432/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 293, 294 and 295 together.
I would like to assure the Deputy that this Government is firmly committed to maintaining connectivity to the northwest by continuing to provide Exchequer funded Public Service Obligation (PSO) air services on this route.
To ensure continuity of services beyond 25 February, when the previous contract expired, my Department conducted a public procurement process, in line with the requirements of EU Regulation 1008/2008. This process formally concluded on 10 February, with the award of a contract to Emerald Airlines.
While the new contract continues to provide twice daily two-way air services on this route, I am fully committed to ensuring that an effective service is provided at times that work for all those availing of it, including critical care patients. I had a constructive meeting with representatives from the Donegal Cancer Flights & Services Group recently, where I listened to the very real concerns raised and where we discussed efforts underway to move things forward.
In this regard, my officials are exploring what options may be legally available under the new PSO contract to meet the needs of all users, while ensuring the continuity of this vital service.
Question No. 294 answered with Question No. 293.
Question No. 295 answered with Question No. 293.
Bus Services
Questions (296, 297)
Emer Currie
Question:296. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport to provide a bus shelter at the busiest stop on a route (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16438/26]
View answerEmer Currie
Question:297. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport to provide a bus shelter at the busiest stop on a route (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16439/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 296 and 297 together.
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.
Question No. 297 answered with Question No. 296.
Rail Network
Questions (298)
Alan Kelly
Question:298. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport the number of WTE digital marketing specialists employed by Iarnród Éireann as of 24 February 2026, in tabular form. [16493/26]
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 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.
Driver Test
Questions (299)
Michael Fitzmaurice
Question:299. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Transport the average waiting time and average number of people waiting in each county for driving tests for categories B, C1, C, BE, and CE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16501/26]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has statutory responsibility for the National Driver Testing Service, including all testing and scheduling matters. Given the RSA's responsibility in this matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the RSA for direct response. Please contact my office if a reply is not received within ten days.
Pending this response, the Deputy should note that the RSA have published detailed monthly information on the driver testing service since 2021 on the CSO website. This information is available at the following link: []https://data.cso.ie/product/rsadts.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Local Authorities
Questions (300)
John Connolly
Question:300. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the total funding allocated to each local authority under the 2025 bus stop enhancement programme; the total amount of that allocation that was drawn down or spent by each local authority, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16533/26]
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.