Edward Timmins
Question:121. Deputy Edward Timmins asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the local link route 199 Glendalough to Bray; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31165/26]
View answerBus Services
Questions (121)
Written answers
As I have mentioned already today, there has been considerable investment in services throughout the country under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, improving how rural communities access Public Transport. I am pleased to state that passengers are responding to this continued investment, with TFI Local Link services recording a combined 6.97 million passenger journeys in 2025, marking another record year and a 19% increase on 2024.
A great example of this continued investment in Wicklow can be seen in Route 895, which was a new service that commenced in December of 2025 from Glendalough to Sallins via Blessington and offering four daily return trips, and connectivity with Route 183.
In Counties Wicklow, Carlow and Kilkenny, funding increased by 25% between 2024 and 2025, to over €4.6m, boosting passenger numbers by 81%. Another example of improved services can be seen in Route 183, between Arklow and Sallins which was enhanced in early 2025. This enhanced route offers connectivity to Avoca, Rathdrum, Rathnew, Wicklow, Roundwood and Laragh, and improved connections to regional public transport, including a morning connection to Arklow.
I understand there is great demand for these excellent services, and the Department and NTA are focussed on matching that demand. However, in the context of finite resources and other challenges such as driver shortages, the focus currently remains on stabilising the PSO programme as a whole and ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably.
Bus Services
Questions (122)
Brian Stanley
Question:122. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport to extend the town bus routes in Portlaoise as it has proved very successful to date, as the town has a growing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31214/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, town services, and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. 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.
Bus Services
Questions (123)
Claire Kerrane
Question:123. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Transport if additional funding will be made available to Local Link to expand routes and additional services in County Roscommon and Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29893/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
In Budget 2026, a 43% uplift on PSO funding was secured, amounting to €940m to allow for continued operations and maintenance of our public transport network. A ringfenced €31m was allocated for investment into the Rural Transport Programme, which funds critical TFI Local Link services that connect our rural communities.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Rail Network
Questions (124)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:124. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that overcrowding issues on the Wexford-Wicklow-Dublin commuter train persist; if he has discussed passenger safety with the NTA and Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31205/26]
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.
Bus Services
Questions (125)
Albert Dolan
Question:125. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Transport for an update on the long-promised introduction of a dedicated bus service between Athenry and Galway, following the completion of the public consultation on the proposed rerouting of the 425A service; the timeline for a decision and implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31285/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services. In light of the NTA responsibilities I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. 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 Licences
Questions (126)
Colm Burke
Question:126. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Transport the action his Department is taking to reduce Irish driving licence exchange processing times, in view that many applicants are experiencing delays of up to 12 weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31292/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail & Ports, I wish to advise that
the length of time taken to complete a licence exchange may vary for a number of reasons. For example, the driver may need to submit outstanding information, such as a medical or eyesight report, or the physical licence itself in the case of an online application.
The most common reason for delays in exchanging a licence is the verification process. Vigilance is needed when processing a licence exchange application, to ensure a fraudulent document has not been submitted and to ensure a driving test was passed in the country in which the licence was obtained. In the exchange of a non-EU licence for an Irish licence, the applicant's driving entitlements must be verified by the authority that issued the non-EU licence. Accordingly, the time taken for verification is dependent on the response time from the other licensing authority.
Bus Services
Questions (127)
John Paul O'Shea
Question:127. Deputy John Paul O'Shea asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding granted to the NTA in 2026 for the rollout of new bus routes in Cork as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30763/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, worsening urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services. At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing a significant workforce shortage, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers.
This challenge is already affecting service performance across the network. Bus operators are actively engaging with the NTA to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints. In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.
The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the Network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible within its €940 million current allocation. Decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
Traffic Management
Questions (128)
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:128. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport if he will travel to Donegal and meet with locally elected councillors to learn at firsthand about the serious traffic management crisis in Letterkenny impacting the people of and visitors to Donegal; and the proposed local roads infrastructure projects that can address this crisis. [29784/26]
View answerWritten answers
In 2026, through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), €659 million was allocated for our national roads. Approximately €23 million in exchequer funding was allocated for the national road network in Donegal. This funding supports the progression of new road projects, such as the Donegal TEN-T Project, as well as the protection and renewal of the existing network in the county. Full details are available in this year's allocation booklet on the TII website: https://websitecms.tii.ie/media/luma0wdk/2026-tii-la-national-roads-allocations-booklet.pdf
In accordance with Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, as amended, the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority. Work on such roads is funded from Councils' own resources, supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of work to be funded is a matter for local authorities.
For 2026, €718 million was allocated, through State road grants, for the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads, with approximately 90% of this funding allocated to road maintenance and renewal and the remainder directed towards new roads, bridges, and road realignments. This total allocation will facilitate an increase in funding of €26 million this year for road protection and renewal work.
In 2026, Donegal County Council was allocated a total of €46,220,650. Of this, €38,350,650 was for the protection and renewal of regional and local roads and €7.870,000 was for new roads and road improvement. In particular, the Letterkenny Southern Network Project received an allocation of €200,000.
Any new road project that seeks State funding is assessed by my Department on a case-by-case basis. All projects proposed by local authorities for consideration must comply with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines and my Department's Transport Appraisal Framework. Given the limited funding available for regional and local road improvement works it is important that local authorities prioritise projects within their overall area of responsibility.
Any requests for a meeting and similar engagement should be directed to my private office, where it can be appropriately considered.
Departmental Schemes
Questions (129)
Pa Daly
Question:129. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that the current measures in place to address the price spikes that have occurred following the US and Israeli invasion of Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31151/26]
View answerWritten answers
Deputy,
My Department is currently finalising the operation of the Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS). The scheme was brought to Cabinet on Tuesday, 28th April and details of the scheme were announced at a press conference on Wednesday, 29th April. Details of how to apply for the scheme will be made available as soon as possible
The Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS) plans will provide support for licensed hauliers, own account operators, and public transport providers, subject to certain criteria.
Since the beginning of this fuel crisis, both myself and the Minister of State have engaged with representative bodies from the road haulage industry. The supports announced since 24 March reflect the input from those bodies.
This Government recognises the essential role the supply chain and logistics sector plays in Ireland’s economy, and its national strategic importance bringing essential supplies into and around the State, supporting key infrastructure and enabling the maintenance of all economic and social activity in our country.
This Government also acknowledges that rising fuel costs born out of the conflict in Iran represent a threat, not just to the transport sector, but to our whole economy. Higher prices for hauliers lead to secondary price rises for everyone across the supply chain. That’s why this Government is committed to engaging with industry representatives and implementing measures aimed at addressing rising fuel costs facing the sector.
Support will be provided for licenced hauliers, own account operators, and public transport providers. Payments will be made for March, with additional payments for April and May if average diesel prices remain above €1.90 per litre.
The Road Transport Support Scheme (RTSS) is modelled largely on the Licensed Haulier Support Scheme (LHSS) and the Licensed Haulier Emergency Support Scheme (LHESS). However, it will go further than the previous schemes and will be open to both licenced road haulage operators and the own account sector, as well as licensed road passenger operators, subject to certain criteria. This Government is confident that the support packages in place will minimise the impact of the fuel increases for the sector.
As Minister for Transport , alongside officials from my Department will continue to engage with representative bodies through the established channels of the Road Freight Forum (RFF) and the Logistics and Supply Chain Skills Group (LSCSG). The Scheme reflects both the immediate need for financial support and the ongoing commitment of Government to work with the sector to maintain Ireland’s essential trade and strategic supply chains.
Bus Services
Questions (130)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:130. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he will share the timeline for introduction of the long awaited 199 local link bus in Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31206/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, worsening urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services. At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing a significant workforce shortage, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers.
This challenge is already affecting service performance across the network. Bus operators are actively engaging with the NTA to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints. In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.
The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the Network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible within its €940 million current allocation. Decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
Bus Éireann
Questions (131)
Conor D. McGuinness
Question:131. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport the current position regarding Bus Éireann services in Waterford, including recent changes to routes, stops and service levels; and the steps he will take to ensure adequate public transport provision for communities in the county. [31322/26]
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 Bus 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.
National Transport Authority
Questions (132)
Thomas Gould
Question:132. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport the funding spent on the app used for the PSO route in Cork city, in each of the past five years. [31074/26]
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 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 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Transport
Questions (133)
Catherine Callaghan
Question:133. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport the measures that are being undertaken to ensure there are more public transport options for rural dwellers in Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31280/26]
View answerWritten answers
As 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.
Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, worsening urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services. At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing a significant workforce shortage, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers.
This challenge is already affecting service performance across the network. Bus operators are actively engaging with the NTA to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints. In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.
The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the Network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible within its €940 million current allocation. Decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
Road Traffic Offences
Questions (134)
Joe Neville
Question:134. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has reviewed increasing the fines on users who misuse e-scooters and illegal scramblers on our roads as a further deterrent to doing so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20217/26]
View answerWritten answers
In relation to e-scooters, the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 and the regulations commenced in May 2024 introduced, for the first time, a comprehensive statutory framework governing the safe and lawful use of e-scooters. These regulations included the creation of new fixed charge notices (FCNs) for misuse.
Offences such as riding on footpaths, exceeding the 20 km/h design speed, carrying passengers or goods, or using a mobile phone while operating an e-scooter currently attract a €50 fixed-charge penalty. Any review of the FCN amounts would require detailed policy consideration, balancing deterrence with proportionality. At present, however, my Department has not taken a formal decision to increase fines for e-scooter misuse.
On 1 April the Road Traffic (Control of Certain Vehicles) Regulations 2026, known as Grace's Law in memory of Grace Lynch, were signed into law. The regulations implement an explicit ban on scrambler use in any public place and will strengthen existing provisions and powers of enforcement by An Garda Síochána.
Since July 2023, off-road scramblers have been illegal for use on public roads and it has also been illegal to drive them dangerously anywhere, even on private land. An Garda Síochána has full powers to seize a scrambler being driven dangerously in any location, even where they have the reasonable belief that the vehicle will be driven dangerously, and they can enter the curtilage of a dwelling to retrieve a scrambler after the fact. It has also been an offence to sell or otherwise supply a mechanically propelled vehicle, such as a scrambler, to a minor since 2004.
The new regulations complete the introduction of provisions in the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 to tackle the dangerous use of scramblers and bring additional legal clarity by consolidating the disparate existing provisions into a single legislative instrument in respect of scramblers. The regulations prohibit the use of an off-road motorcycle, such as a scrambler or a quadbike, in any place, except on private land with the written consent of the landowner or use by the landowner. They impose a requirement of consent where restricted vehicles are used on private land and will make enforcement easier. The mere use of scramblers will now explicitly be an offence, assisting An Garda Síochána operationally by ensuring that members will no longer have to form a reasonable belief about dangerous use.
The regulations will not apply to registered, on-road motorcycles that are safe and legal for road use. It is important to note however that dangerous driving offences and all relevant road traffic laws continue to apply to the use of these vehicles. They will also allow for the continued appropriate off-road use of scramblers or quadbikes, such as for agricultural purposes and for controlled licenced sports events.
My Department, in consultation with the Department of Justice, is preparing further regulations to substantially increase the cost of releasing a scrambler following seizure, to reduce the number of seized vehicles that return to the road.
Rail Network
Questions (135)
Pa Daly
Question:135. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Transport the money spent to date, and the updated cost estimates for the MetroLink; if these have risen from the previous cost projections in 2022; when he anticipates a new director will be appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31134/26]
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 the statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), which includes MetroLink.
It is too early in the project lifecycle to give a precise capital cost or budget for MetroLink. This is because the project has yet to go through the detailed procurement stage. The Preliminary Business Case showed how the project benefits exceed the project costs. The cost estimates for MetroLink are currently under review by the NTA and the Department as part of preparation for Approval Gate 2 of the Infrastructure Guidelines and will ultimately be finalised once tenders have been received, ahead of the Government's decision at Approval Gate 3.
I understand that work is already underway to recruit a new Programme Director without delay.
Noting the NTA's responsibility for these matters, 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Network
Questions (136)
Conor D. McGuinness
Question:136. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport the current position regarding road safety on national and regional roads in Waterford and the wider south east, including planned improvement works and investment priorities; and the steps he will take to address ongoing safety concerns. [31321/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is committed to reducing road deaths and creating safer roads for everyone in Ireland.
In accordance with Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, as amended, the improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority. Work on such roads is funded from Councils' own resources, supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of work to be funded is a matter for local authorities.
My Department provides grant assistance to local authorities under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme for a number of targeted programmes, including the Safety Improvement Works Programme. Applications are sought each year from local authorities under this programme for consideration for funding in the subsequent year. The schemes for inclusion in the application are decided by the local authorities and submitted in order of priority.
This year, funding of €14 million has been allocated under the Safety Improvement Works Grant Programme to regional and local roads for 288 schemes across the State. This is an increase of approximately 7.7% on the 2025 allocation. Of this, Waterford City and County Council received an allocation of €497,000. A further €12.4 million of the Specific Improvement Grant Programme was allocated to road improvement schemes related to road safety across the State.
The National Vehicle and Driver File Bill 2025, on enactment, will enable my Department and local authorities to identify locations of interest across the country and areas for investment and improvement.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to our National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with our National Development Plan, 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 national roads in Waterford and the wider south east.
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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Road Projects
Questions (137)
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Question:137. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the progress of the N53 road project in County Louth; to detail the timelines for the completion of the phases and the overall completion of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31246/26]
View answerWritten answers
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 planning, design and construction 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 on the status of this.
I can confirm that €10,000,000 has been allocated for the N53 Hackballscross to Rassan scheme in 2026.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you on the progress of this project. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Questions (138)
Emer Currie
Question:138. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Transport the measures his Department is taking meet commuter demand on the Maynooth rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31248/26]
View answerWritten answers
Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). This includes the DART+ programme and DART+ West, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann.
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, I note that the DART+ West project will serve the people of Maynooth and surrounding areas and will provide an extension of DART services from the City Centre to M3 Parkway and, pending planning approval, Kilcock, the construction of a new depot, and city centre capacity enhancements.
Preparation for procurement for DART+ West is progressing, with design and build pre-qualification questionnaires advertised in May 2025. The project is scheduled to start construction next year with funding provided under the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan, which was published by my Department last November.
A public consultation on the new depot for DART+ West, proposed to be located west of Kilcock took place between 16 March and 27 April. A planning application is expected later this year to confirm this element of the project.
As the Deputy may also be aware, Iarnród Éireann are in the process of receiving more DART carriages, with three orders placed in recent years for a total of 285 new carriages as part of DART+. The first of these will begin entering service from 2027 onwards, including to Drogheda.
As rail fleet becomes available through the redeployment of fleet replaced by the new DART fleet, Iarnród Éireann will examine the deployment of its trains and carriages under review to address capacity issues across the network, with all timetabling subject to the approval of the NTA under the public service obligation contract.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Public Transport
Questions (139)
Barry Ward
Question:139. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the establishment of a dedicated transport security service as set out in the Programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29986/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I can assure you that my Department is actively progressing the necessary steps to deliver on the commitment to establish a Transport Security Force, in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. Considerable progress has been made in recent months, and this work remains a top priority for all parties involved.
This work centres on developing a well-considered and informed approach to identifying the most suitable model for the Transport Security Force. In this regard a proposed model is currently under detailed consideration, with all key stakeholders fully engaged – the NTA, operators, trade unions, passenger groups, An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice.
Further meetings with stakeholders are scheduled for early May, at which a finalised proposal will be presented and discussed, with the objective of achieving alignment on the preferred way forward. Following this engagement, I intend to bring a Memorandum to Government to provide a comprehensive update on the agreed approach, associated decisions, and the proposed next steps.
In addition my Department and the NTA are actively progressing the legislative proposals required to deliver on the Government’s commitment to establish a Transport Security Force, and the introduction of this Force will require the development of primary legislation, which can have a significant lead time, but it will be expedited, with a view to making progress on its foundations during 2026.
In parallel with the work being carried out in the Department of Transport, the Government continues to invest heavily in public transport safety, with over €14 million spent by operators on safety measures in 2025. All operators continue to have strong relationships with An Garda Síochána, who ultimately assist in supporting these incidences.
I fully support all the ongoing positive work to progress towards creating a safer public transport network for staff and passengers. In the meantime, we are committed to delivering a safe and secure public transport system, and we will maintain momentum on all fronts until the Transport Security Force is in place.
Electric Vehicles
Questions (140)
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:140. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that “Dublin City Council does not support the installation of on-street EV charging” for homes which do not have off-street parking, thus creating a barrier for owners/potential owners of EVs; and the steps he will take to address this matter all local authorities to ensure a continuing transition from fossil fuel vehicle to electric vehicles. [27096/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles. This includes provision of funding to Local Authorities who are developing local and regional EV charging network strategies and implementation plans.
The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan provides a pathway for the accelerated delivery of public destination and neighbourhood charging and will be led by Local Authorities.
This process will identify the number of charge points required in each area, including chargers to serve residents without access to private off-street parking.
While strategies are being finalised, ZEVI is funding pilot infrastructure projects in a number of Local Authorities, including Dublin, so as not to delay rollout and to provide charging infrastructure at locations that meet multiple user needs.
In July 2025, the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE) adopted a Strategy Statement on Private Wires. Department of Transport fully supports this DCEE led initiative.
In December 2025, Government approved the drafting of the Private Wires Bill. The bill will seek to amend the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 to enable private development of electricity wires in specific circumstances.
Department officials are working with officials in relevant Government Departments and local government on developing a framework under new legislation to include including a home charging solution for EVs where owners do not have off-street parking. We expect the framework to be finalised later this year.