Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
210. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a schedule of State public transport services (details supplied) that hedges its fuel purchases; the amount it spends on fuel to operate the entire fleet per annum in 2019 and 2025 and to date in 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33842/26]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
I understand that the CIÉ Group (inclusive of Iarnród Éireann, Bus Átha Cliath, and Bus Éireann) take part in the hedging of their fuel purchases, and therefore, I am referring the 'ground' transport aspect of the Deputy's question to CIÉ Holding Company for direct reply on behalf of the Group.
For other “ground” PSO public transport services, ‘TFI, NTA, PSO fleet’, I refer the Deputy’s question to the NTA for further information.
In Relation to the “air” transport aspect, the Regional Airports Programme provides for a Public Service Obligation (PSO) Air Services Scheme in compliance with EU Regulation 1008/2008 on the common rules for the operation of air services in the Community.
Currently one PSO air service is supported under this Scheme, connecting Donegal and Dublin airports. Following a public procurement process, services are operated under a services concession contract between the Minister and the successful carrier. Given this, fuel hedging is a commercial matter for the airline carrier.
PSO Island ferries or the “sea” transport aspect of your question would be a matter for the Minister of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
