Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 March 2026
286. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the work his Department is doing to improve transport options from Donegal to Dublin; if he is aware of the impact that the removal of the midday Donegal to Dublin flight will have on passengers who need to travel to Dublin for medical purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18001/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the Department of Transport, together with the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland, published the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy in December 2025. This Strategy outlines how to best sequence and optimise the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, which was published in July 2024.
In addition to short-term rail infrastructure investments, referred to as Early Interventions, the Rail Strategy also identifies major projects to be progressed which includes reinstatement of lines including the Western Rail Corridor between Claremorris to Athenry as well as lines between Portadown, Armagh and Derry to Letterkenny in County Donegal.
In addition 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.
Considering the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded part of the question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
In respect of the Donegal Dublin Public Service Obligation (PSO) air service 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 PSO air services on this route.
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.
