Written Answers Nos. 30-49
30. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the flexible working and remote working policies in place for civil servants in her Department; if there is any discrepancy in these policies based on seniority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28915/26]
View answer31. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the flexible working and remote working policies in place for staff that work for any agencies under the remit of her Department; if there is any discrepancy in these policies based on seniority; if this policy is under the control of the agency itself or if it is directed by the Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28934/26]
View answer32. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence if any review is ongoing in relation to her Department’s policy on flexible working and remote working for civil servants in her Department, particularly in the context of increased fuel prices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28952/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 30, 31 and 32 together.
In line with the Government’s commitment to remote and flexible working in the public sector, my Department launched its Blended Working Policy in late October 2022 in line with the Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations.
Employees can apply to avail of a blended working pattern through the centralised online application system facilitated by the National Shared Services Organisation (NSSO) for three days remote working each week. Due to the business requirements and nature of work in a small number of areas within my Department, working from home is only feasible one day per week in a few specific roles. There is no obligation on employees to avail of blended working if they do not wish to do so. There are no inconsistences in the policy based on seniority.
There are three bodies under the aegis of my Department; the Army Pensions Board, the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and the External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces. All support staff to these bodies are civil servants employed by my Department and are therefore governed by the working policies and regulations of the Civil Service and implemented by my Department.
It is envisaged that a review of my Department's Blended Working Policy will be conducted, during 2026, to ensure that it continues to meet the business needs of the Department, that it is being applied in line with the principles set out in the Framework and that any learnings from its application to date are captured. This review is planned as part of the operational work of my Department as it was considered timely in view of the passage of time since the policy was introduced. The decision to complete a review was taken prior to the fuel price crisis.
My Department’s policy will continue to operate within the parameters of the Government’s Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations.
33. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the status of Operation Althea; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29086/26]
View answerThe EU military mission EUFOR ALTHEA (Operation Althea) in Bosnia and Herzegovina was established under the authority of UN Security Council Resolution 1575 of 22 November 2004. On 31 October last, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2795 (2025) renewing the Mission's mandate for a further period of 12 months, until November 2026.
The primary focus of Operation ALTHEA is on the maintenance and stability of a safe and secure environment in the country, especially supporting the civil authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The mission remains an important part of the EU’s comprehensive efforts in the country to support a political process aimed at enabling it, on the basis of necessary reforms, to continue to move forward in the EU integration process.
Ireland has participated in Operation ALTHEA since December 2004. Since April 2017 Ireland’s contribution to the Operation has comprised five personnel, and I have recently approved a further two Defence Forces personnel to be deployed to the Mission. Irish personnel are based at the Mission's HQ in Sarajevo, where they provide support to the Mission Commander and the HQ.
The continued participation of Defence Forces personnel is kept under continuous review and the Mission is approved annually by the Government - most recently in December 2025 - for participation until the end of December 2026.
I am informed that the security situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina currently is deemed calm and stable, and that there are currently no indications to suggest that the security environment will significantly deteriorate in the short term.
34. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the work being carried out by his Department in recent years on an inspections regime for civil aircraft to ensure that they are not carrying munitions or personnel in contravention of existing Irish law; and the progress that was made and whether the current Government intends to proceed with such legislation. [28803/26]
View answerArticle 8 of the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Orders 1973 and 1989 empowers the Minster for Transport to carry out an inspection of civil aircraft flying from any place within the State. The exercise of this power is conditional on there being an appearance, to the Minster for Transport of an intention or likelihood that the civil aircraft concerned is to fly in such circumstances that would be in contravention of the 1973 and 1989 orders. To date, such an appearance of intention or likelihood of contravention has not occurred.
No decision has been taken to proceed with the introduction of an inspections regime as referenced by the Deputy.
35. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport to provide details of the number of legal actions against his Department that have been resolved without going to court in line with the 2023 State Litigation Principles; if his Department is fully applying the State Litigation Principles in seeking to resolve any current or outstanding legal actions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28843/26]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is currently being collated by my officials and will be forwarded to the Deputy by my private office within ten working days.
36. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Transport whether the introduction of a temporary free public transport scheme for a defined period such as two months, has been considered as a measure to alleviate the impact of rising petrol and diesel costs on households; the estimated cost of implementing such a scheme for a two month period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28867/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I fully acknowledge the growing pressure across the public transport sector and the significance of further fuel price rises, and subsequent impacts on transport operators and passengers given the recent global events and the impacts seen in fuel prices in Ireland. It is essential that we monitor these impacts to assess if they are temporary or become more long term. In this context, the Deputy will be aware of the significant package of supports recently announced including for the haulage and coach sector.
Improving the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of public transport, while ensuring the system remains well-funded and responsive to passenger needs, is a core priority under the Programme for Government. The National Transport Authority (NTA), as fare regulator for services provided under PSO contracts, plays a central role in achieving this. While my Department sets the overall policy direction and funding framework for the delivery of public transport services nationwide, it is the NTA that have the statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally.
The Public Service Obligation (PSO) programme represents a significant expenditure of taxpayers' money, and funding has increased in recent years to cater for additional services, fare initiatives and growing demand. The Government recognises that an equitable and reliable public transport network plays a vital role in encouraging a shift away from private car use. Public transport fare policy must balance affordability for passengers with the long-term financial sustainability of the network. The PSO programme is funded through a combination of Exchequer support and fare revenue, with over €940 million allocated in Budget 2026, a 43% increase on 2025, to support service provision in line with growing demand.
Fares in Ireland remain comparatively low as there are significant reductions available to passengers across the various fare initiatives including the 20% reduction, the Young Adult Card offering a 50% discount for young adults, the 90-minute fare allowing free transfers between services. Free travel is now available for those up to age 9 years, with around 263,000 children across Ireland now eligible for this expanded travel scheme. Decisions on such initiatives are ultimately matters for Government decision in the context of available resources and broader transport policy objectives.
The Free Travel Scheme, which is administered by the Department of Social Protection, is currently available to everyone aged 66 or over, and to certain people who are under 66 in receipt of qualifying payments, or who meet the medical conditions for Blind Pension, and are legally living permanently in the State. In addition, last year saw the introduction of the free Public Services Companion Pass for individuals over 70 years of age, representing another meaningful advancement in inclusive and sustainable mobility. By enabling older citizens to travel with a companion at no additional cost, we are further supporting and encouraging the independent use of public transport options for all members of our communities.
While targeted fare measures have absolutely improved accessibility, they also increase subsidy requirements. For example, the estimated cost of making the existing 20% and 50% fare reductions permanent is between €171 million and €189 million annually. The removal of fares entirely would require a significantly higher level of ongoing Exchequer funding and would have implications for the State’s capacity to invest in service expansion, network improvements, and operational resilience.
It is essential that the public transport system remains well funded and responsive to passenger needs. The PSO programme and all its comprising elements are kept under ongoing review by the Department and the NTA, taking account of passenger demand, cost pressures, and wider economic conditions, including fuel price volatility.
Maintaining and strengthening the existing network now ensures that our high-demand services can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system. This 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.
37. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Transport the supports for chartered ferry operators who provide tourism services to offshore islands in view of the recent fuel cost increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28869/26]
View answerThe Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht support island communities by providing subsidised ferry, cargo and air services between the islands and the mainland to ensure the continued viability of these communities. In 2025, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht had 25 contracts for subsidised passenger and cargo ferry services year-round between the mainland and permanently inhabited offshore islands. These contracts include a fuel price variation clause, the application of the fuel price variation clause in respect to the subsidised services is a matter for that Department.
There are also several non-subsidised ferry services to the offshore islands, many of whom would operate on a seasonal basis. The Department of Transport is currently finalising the operation of the Road Transporters Support Scheme in response to the recent fuel costs increases and it is envisaged that these non-subsidised ferry services to the offshore islands may be eligible for support under this scheme, subject to qualifying criteria.
All vessels and operators will be required to have the appropriate certificates and licences issued by the Marine Survey Office (MSO) of the Department of Transport. The detailed plans will go to Government shortly for final approval on the eligibility and payment amounts ahead of the commencement of the scheme. Details of how to apply for the scheme will be made available as soon as possible.
38. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport the action being taken by his Department to increase road safety measures (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28891/26]
View answer39. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport the details of the progress made to date on the commitment in the Programme for Government to support the implementation of Ireland’s Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, to increase public awareness and crack down on dangerous driving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28892/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 together.
The current national framework for road safety is set out in the Government’s fifth Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030. The Strategy has the target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% this decade, and to achieving Vision Zero—as close as possible to no deaths or serious injuries on Irish roads—by 2050.
The Phase 2 Action Plan 2025–2027 was published in July 2025 comprising 12 primary transformative actions and 77 supporting actions. The Action Plan is being delivered through partnership and collaborative working by road safety stakeholders including An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority (RSA), Transport Infrastructure Ireland, National Transport Authority, the Courts Service, Medical Bureau of Road Safety, Health and Safety Authority and the Local Authorities. Examples of key actions include expanding the use of safety cameras and reviewing and overhauling our learning to drive curriculum.
The detailed Action Plan can be reviewed here: https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/20250716_RSS_Phase_2_Action_Plan.pdf
Progress is being made across all of the actions. Key deliverables for this year include passing the National Vehicle and Driver File Bill 2025 to allow Local Authorities to resume accepting and processing collision data, and we are addressing the long-standing issue relating to repeat renewal of learner permits with the regulations coming into effect in November. In addition I expect to publish the first National Safety Camera Strategy shortly which will provide the framework for the rollout of road safety cameras.
In addition, this year, the RSA has again ringfenced funding of €18 million for road safety awareness, education and promotional campaigns focused on making our roads safer for all road users, including and especially vulnerable road users.
My focus as Minister, the focus of my Department and of all the road safety stakeholders who we work with, is on the delivery of the Phase 2 Action Plan. This Action Plan was developed by experts, based on Irish experience while considering best practice in other countries and our focus must be on the delivery of these agreed actions.
40. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the Programme for Government commitment to use ongoing data analysis and local knowledge to identify accident-prone or ‘black spot’ areas and focus road safety interventions where they are most needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28894/26]
View answerIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State grants.
My Department funds Network Safety Analysis of the Regional and Local Road Network across the country. Using available collision datasets, high collision locations are identified and Locations of Interest (LoI) reports are produced.
These LoI reports are then issued to the relevant local authority and form the basis for application for funding under the Safety Improvement Schemes Grant. In 2026 my Department allocated €14 million in Safety Improvement Schemes Grant to the sector which is funding over 330 low cost safety schemes nationally and is an 8% increase over the 2025 allocation.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you in relation to road traffic accident black spots on National Roads.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
41. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the Programme for Government commitment to invest in high-powered roads policing vehicles and continue to upgrade the Garda fleet to support effective enforcement; the progress that has been made to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28895/26]
View answerThis matter does not fall under the remit of the Minister or the Department of Transport.
The Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána under Section 33 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes all operational policing matters, such as the allocation and deployment of Garda resources, and determining the manner in which Garda resources are to be distributed throughout the state and allocated to specific Garda units. Under Section 34(1) of the Policing Security and Community Safety Act 2024, the Garda Commissioner is independent in the performance of his functions.
The Deputy may wish to submit this question to my colleague the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.
42. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Transport to consider the implementation of additional carriages for a train route (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28910/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ programme.
In the light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Pending a more detailed response, there are various initiatives under development which will boost rail capacity and frequency and help alleviate train over-crowding on the line between Dublin and Maynooth.
Funding provided in the NDP Sectoral Plan published by my Department last November provides for construction to start on DART+ West next year. This key project will provide an extension of DART services from Dublin city to M3 Parkway and, pending planning approval, Kilcock, as well as the construction of a new rail depot and city centre enhancements as part of a broader upgrade to boost Dublin rail capacity.
In addition, three orders for new DART trains have been placed in recent years, comprising both battery-electric and electric carriages, bringing the total number of new DART carriages ordered to 285. Deployment of the first and second trains orders around Dublin will free up existing Intercity and Commuter trains to be used on other rail routes. This carriage redeployment will be decided on by the NTA, and it could boost rail services for commuters from late 2027, ahead of the implementation of the infrastructure upgrades under DART+ West.
I look forward to seeing all of these important projects advance and deliver additional rail passenger capacity and services for the communities served by the DART+ West line.
43. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the flexible working and remote working policies in place for civil servants in his Department; if there is any discrepancy in these policies based on seniority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28929/26]
View answer45. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport if any review is ongoing in relation his Department’s policy on flexible working and remote working for civil servants in his Department particularly in the context of increased fuel prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28965/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 45 together.
Deputy,
I propose to take questions 28929/26 and 28965/26 together.
In accordance with the Civil Service Blended Working Framework, published on 31st March 2022, my Department has implemented its own Blended Working Policy. Since the 1st July 2022, my Department has facilitated flexible blended working arrangements for all eligible staff members, on a pattern of up to a maximum of 5 days over a fortnight period on a 2 days / 3 days alternating pattern for office attendance as determined by business need, with flexibility expected from staff on other days where there are particular business requirements. Staff in my Department from the grade of Clerical Officer to Higher Executive Officer and equivalent avail of flexible working hours (“flexitime”) in accordance with the prevailing policies of the Civil Service.
There is no seniority criteria in the applicability of Blended Working to the staff of my Department, though certain positions within the Department have been designated as unsuitable for Blended Working on the basis of their duties.
There are currently no reviews ongoing in relation to the blended and flexible working arrangements in force within my Department. My Department will be guided by prevailing arrangements across the Civil Service in respect of amendments to the those policies.
44. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the flexible working and remote working policies in place for staff that work for any agencies under the remit of this Department; if there is any discrepancy in these policies based on seniority; if this policy is under the control of the agency itself or if it is directed by the Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28947/26]
View answerDeputy,
The information requested, which relates to the the flexible working and remote working policies in place for staff that work for any agencies under the aegis of my Department, is an operational matter for those agencies themselves. I have referred the Deputy’s question to the agencies and have requested that a response should issue within 10 days.
46. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the development of a new vehicle adaptation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29122/26]
View answerI wish to advise that my Department has been tasked with developing a Vehicle Adaptation Scheme (VAS).
The purpose of the new Scheme is to improve functional mobility by assisting with the cost of vehicle adaptations. The scheme will be open to drivers and passengers who have a need for vehicle adaptations to enable them to enter or exit a vehicle or operate a vehicle.
My officials have had initial discussions with some stakeholders and will meet more over the coming period. The Department’s priority is to provide supports for both disabled drivers and passengers which are fit for purpose, and which are also equitable, effective, efficient, as well as proportionate and appropriate to needs.
It is important to note that the VAS is a standalone scheme and not intended to replace the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme. Responsibility for the future of the Disabled Drivers and Passengers Scheme remains a function of the Department of Finance.
47. Deputy Naoise Ó Cearúil asked the Minister for Transport the timeframe for DART South West; his plans to extend it to Sallins in future phases plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29202/26]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, the DART+ programme.
In light of the above, I have forwarded the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
Pending a more detailed response, I note that the GDA Transport Strategy 2022-2042, which was prepared by the NTA and published in January 2023, includes plans to extend the DART service to Sallins in the long-term.
I also note that DART+ South West will extend DART services from the City Centre to Hazelhatch and Celbridge, including four-tracking from Park West to Heuston.
A Railway Order was approved for DART+ South West by An Coimisiún Pleanála in November 2024. In addition, procurement for DART+ South West and West is progressing with pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQ) notices for Design and Build works advertised in May 2025.
Funding from the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan published by my Department last November has allowed Compulsory Purchase Orders for DART+ South West to commence in February.
48. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to outline what action will be taken if tax due is not paid (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28974/26]
View answer58. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to clarify the way in which funds raised under the new derelict site tax collected will be allocated, to confirm if funds collected will be allocated to the Local Authority, in which the derelict site or building is located in; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28973/26]
View answer59. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance to confirm the definition of derelict sites that will be used for the derelict site tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28975/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 48, 58 and 59 together.
In Budget 2026, it was announced that a new Derelict Property Tax (DPT) would be introduced. The aim of this tax is to encourage the activation of derelict properties and sites. It will replace the Derelict Sites Levy and will be collected by the Revenue Commissioners.
I intend to legislate for DPT as part of Finance Bill 2026. This is dependent on engagement from stakeholders and will also be influenced by any advice I receive from the Attorney General. A preliminary register of derelict properties will be published in 2027 and the tax will be implemented as soon as possible after this.
Officials in my Department are engaging on an ongoing basis with Revenue and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on the design of this new tax. The definition of a derelict site is one of the matters that is currently being deliberated by officials. An appropriate definition of a derelict site is key to ensuring the tax will be applied in a consistent manner to all residential properties that are derelict. Further detail on the definition will be published when the tax is legislated for later this year.
As DPT will be legislated for as part of Finance Bill 2026, the tax collected will accrue to the Exchequer in the first instance. Local authorities will need time and resources to identify properties in their areas. I understand that a mechanism will be required to support local authorities in transitioning from the levy to the tax. It is appropriate that this mechanism be dealt with as part of the wider estimates process, in advance of Budget 2027.
Regarding the action that will be taken if the tax due is not paid, Revenue have a compliance framework for all taxes and duties that are under its care and management. The details for sanctions in the penalty and enforcement regime for DPT are still being considered, however, the intention is to fully align the tax with Revenue’s compliance framework.
Once the DPT is operational, I am confident that many owners of derelict properties will be incentivised to take action to bring these homes back into use and ultimately contribute to our housing stock. The behavioural effect of the tax will also contribute to regeneration and development, breathing new life into our villages, towns and cities.
49. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance whether his Department intends to conduct a wholesale review of the taxes and levies which are applied to motor fuels such as petrol and diesel following the recent fuel price spikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29022/26]
View answer60. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance whether his Department intends to conduct a wholesale review of the taxes and levies which are applied to motor fuels such as petrol and diesel following the recent fuel price spikes; whether his Department intends to conduct a wholesale review of the taxes and levies which are applied to home heating oil following the recent price spikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29023/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 60 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, as part of the energy support packages to alleviate increased fuel costs Government announced temporary, significant reductions in excise rates applying to auto diesel, petrol and Marked Gas Oil. I have also deferred the increase on carbon tax which was due to take effect from 1 May until 14 October 2026.
Further, there were significant non tax measures announced, including the reduction in the National Oil Reserves Agency levy to a nominal amount, the extension of the fuel allowance scheme by 4 weeks and two new schemes to support farmers, agricultural contractors, fishers and road transport operators.
These temporary measures have been taken in the context of the extreme volatility which has impacted energy markets arising from the conflict in the Middle East.
My Department monitors energy, electricity and fuel prices on an ongoing basis. Policy options with regard to excise duty rates on energy products are considered as part of the annual Budgetary cycle which includes the presentation of tax policy options to the Tax Strategy Group. This involves consideration of policy rationale behind tax rates including relevant social, environmental and economic factors. Previous Tax Strategy Group Papers are available online: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-finance/collections/budget-2026-tax-strategy-group-papers/.
