Shane Moynihan
Question:212. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the work his Department is undertaking to progress agreed pensions increases for CIÉ workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40520/26]
View answerPension Provisions
Questions (212)
Written 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 are currently engaging with CIÉ as well as financial advisors at NewERA, 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.
My Department and all relevant stakeholders are endeavouring to achieve the same at the earliest, keeping in line with the appropriate processes, compliance with all applicable requirements, and necessary approvals, which is now well underway.
Rail Network
Questions (213, 214)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:213. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the progression of approval gate two for the Luas Finglas project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40819/26]
View answerPaul McAuliffe
Question:214. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the pre-qualification questionnaire for the Luas Finglas project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40820/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 214 together.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure including light rail.
Luas Finglas is an exciting project that has the potential to transform Finglas and the wider area for those who live and who work there.
Government's consent for approval for the project to proceed at Approval Gate 1 of the Infrastructure Guidelines was obtained on 22 October 2024. An Coimisiún Pleanála published its decision to grant the Luas Finglas Railway Order in October 2025. I warmly welcome the subsequent decision to withdraw the legal challenges, as it means that we now have full planning permission in place to move forward with the Luas Finglas extension.
Turning to the future of the project, the Deputy may be aware that Luas Finglas is one of the four light rail proposals identified for development and delivery within the lifetime of the NTA Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2022-2042. The project is identified in the Sectoral Investment Plan for Transport as part of the National Development Plan Review 2025. Specifically, under the Sectoral Investment Plan, the main construction works will commence by 2029, and some enabling works may commence beforehand.
I understand that the project team is currently preparing for future phases of the project, including drafting and updating the detailed business case, procurement strategy and tender documents.
Noting the NTA's responsibility the Luas Finglas project, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office, if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Question No. 214 answered with Question No. 213.
Departmental Funding
Questions (215)
Ged Nash
Question:215. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport when the NTA envisages funding being made available to Louth County Council to fund the already planned active travel schemes in Drogheda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40823/26]
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.
In 2026, the NTA allocated €4 million to Louth County Council for various walking and cycling projects around the county, including in Drogheda. Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Departmental Funding
Questions (216)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:216. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport the steps he will take to provide funding to the National Transport Authority for the Dart+ south-west project; and if it his intention to do so earlier than the 2030 date indicated by him last November. [40838/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area. In the case of the DART+ programme, the NTA fulfils this statutory remit in collaboration with Iarnród Éireann.
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 this more detailed response, I note that full planning approval for DART+ South West was granted by An Coimisiún Pleanála in November 2024. Procurement for both DART+ South West and West is progressing, with pre-qualification questionnaire notices for design and build works advertised in May 2025.
Funding secured under this National Development Plan will see construction of the DART+ programme begin before the end of next year, starting with DART+ West, as this project acts as a crucial enabler of the rest of the programme by providing additional electrified depot capacity for the new DART+ fleet.
The Compulsory Purchase Orders process for DART+ South West commenced in recent months and aspects of the procurement frameworks put in place for DART+ West will be available for use on South-West when its main construction works commence.
Bus Services
Questions (217)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:217. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport the total capital and current expenditure cost of the entire Dublin Bus Connects network redesign; the total capital and expenditure provided to date with detail of those elements of Bus Connects that this has allowed to progress; to indicate the capital and current expenditure for Dublin Bus Connects that has not yet been provided with detail of those elements of Bus Connects that cannot progress as a result of this and to set out a time line as to when this funding will be approved with detail of each element of the network redesign that the future funding decisions will then allow to proceed. [40839/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Under the Dublin Transport Authority Act 2008, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the provision of public transport infrastructure and services within the Greater Dublin Area, including the BusConnects Dublin programme.
As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, with the aim to provide better bus services across five cities. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State and is managed by the NTA.
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.
The referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Bus Services
Questions (218)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:218. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the funding approval for the Tallaght-Clondalkin-City Centre element of the Dublin Bus Connects network redesign. [40840/26]
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 BusConnects routes in Dublin.
As the Deputy may be aware, BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, with the aim to provide better bus services across five cities. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State and is managed by the NTA. The roll-out of the remaining phases of the BusConnects Dublin Network Redesign will occur over the coming years, subject to funding and operational readiness.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility to consider and redesign Dublin Bus Network, 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.
Bus Services
Questions (219)
Eoin Ó Broin
Question:219. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport if he will request the National Transport Authority produce a draft BusConnects network redesign for the Clonburris-Adamstown-Kilcarberry Grange area, where there has been increased residential development in recent years and for the authority to undertake a public consultation on their proposals and further for the Minister to give a commitment to fund the outcome of that consultation to ensure that the new communities of Clonburris-Adamstown-Kilcarberry Grange have adequate bus public transport. [40841/26]
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 in the Greater Dublin Area, including the BusConnects Dublin 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.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders
Departmental Expenditure
Questions (220)
Louis O'Hara
Question:220. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Transport the areas of his Department's expenditure that will be reduced in order to comply with the imposition of an expenditure levy for 2027 (details supplied); the impact this expenditure levy will have on the funding of new transport services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40885/26]
View answerWritten answers
I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department will be assessing all our options during our budget negotiations for 2027.
Electric Vehicles
Questions (221)
Cathy Bennett
Question:221. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Transport the number of public electric vehicle chargers in operation in each county in each of the years 2020 to date, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40915/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the EV charging network over the coming years.
This includes funding the delivery of motorway charging hubs; national primary and secondary roads high powered charging; a pilot scheme for EV infrastructure in 15 Local Authorities; and a Shared Island funded Sports Club scheme for EV charging.
The National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy outlines the requirements for publicly accessible charging and installing EV Infrastructure that can meet user needs. This strategy is currently being revised, and a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 was published for consultation between February and April.
The Department of Transport is unable to provide historical data on publicly accessible EV charging stations. However, based on official data provided to the national reporting platform by registered ChargePoint Operators (CPOs), the view of the current number of publicly available recharging points per county is shown below.
|
County |
Total Number of Recharging Points |
|
CARLOW |
54 |
|
CAVAN |
63 |
|
CLARE |
119 |
|
CORK |
304 |
|
DONEGAL |
98 |
|
DUBLIN |
724 |
|
GALWAY |
169 |
|
KERRY |
132 |
|
KILDARE |
166 |
|
KILKENNY |
76 |
|
LAOIS |
65 |
|
LEITRIM |
11 |
|
LIMERICK |
130 |
|
LONGFORD |
41 |
|
LOUTH |
91 |
|
MAYO |
151 |
|
MEATH |
133 |
|
MONAGHAN |
42 |
|
OFFALY |
69 |
|
ROSCOMMON |
53 |
|
SLIGO |
45 |
|
TIPPERARY |
137 |
|
WATERFORD |
87 |
|
WESTMEATH |
90 |
|
WEXFORD |
117 |
|
WICKLOW |
121 |
|
Total |
3,288 |
It should be noted that these data are provided directly by charge point operators (CPOs) and there are some small differences in approach across CPOs in relation to the format of data provided. The Department of Transport is currently finalising a ZEVI Data Strategy and associated data platforms with Transport Infrastructure Ireland. This Strategy is being finalised following consultation and will be published shortly. Once in place, these will enhance TII’s and the Department’s ability to monitor this infrastructure more accurately. The system will enable measures to be put in place to enhance accuracy of data provided by CPOs in relation to charge-points in near real time and provide these comprehensive data on an Open Data basis.
Electric Vehicles
Questions (222)
Cathy Bennett
Question:222. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Transport the target numbers for public electric vehicle chargers for each county in each of the years 2020 to 2030, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40916/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle (EV) charging network over the coming years.
To date, almost all EV charging infrastructure delivered in Ireland delivered has been done so on a commercial basis, with little government subvention. This is expected to change in 2026, with a significant step up in delivery of government-procured EV infrastructure, with national road EV infrastructure, sports club EV infrastructure and a number of Local Authority pilots all to be delivered this year.
While Ireland does not have targets for the number of publicly accessible EV charging stations by county, the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) sets binding national targets for all Member States to ensure adequate deployment of alternative fuel infrastructure for the road, rail, maritime and aviation sectors. It also defines unified technical standards and requirements for user access, data sharing and payment systems to ensure consistency and interoperability across the EU. The requirements include minimum power output and the maximum distance allowable between recharging pools (one or more recharging stations in one specific location).
In order to achieve Ireland’s EU targets under AFIR, it is expected that there will be 3,200 – 6,210 public chargers required nationally by 2030, depending on the level of power supplied at each. AFIR requirements state that there should be 1.3kW of capacity on the national network per BEV and 0.8kW capacity per PHEV.
The National EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy outlines the requirements for publicly accessible charging and installing EV Infrastructure that is capable of meeting user needs. This strategy is currently being revised, and a refreshed strategy for 2026-2028 was published for consultation between February and April.
Public Transport
Questions (223)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Question:223. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Transport his plans to expand public transport serving the Kildare south area over the coming year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40934/26]
View answerWritten answers
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. 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.
In this context, we secured an unprecedented allocation of €940 million for PSO services in Budget 2026, a significant 43% uplift in the allocation from Budget 2025. This allocation will ensure that existing public transport services can operate reliably and sustainably throughout the year in the face of growing passenger demand and increased operational costs.
With over 363.5 million journeys undertaken in 2025, Ireland’s public transport system is at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising and strengthening 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.
In light of the NTA's responsibility in this area including any plans to expand public transport serving the Kildare south area, I have forwarded the Deputy's query to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Road Projects
Questions (224, 225)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:224. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the five arm junction project in Finglas village, including a timeline. [40960/26]
View answerPaul McAuliffe
Question:225. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the Jamestown roundabout scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40961/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 224 and 225 together.
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.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
Question No. 225 answered with Question No. 224.
Driver Licences
Questions (226)
John Lahart
Question:226. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the delays in the processing of applications to exchange foreign driving licences, which can take from one to three months; the reasons for the delays; the number of applications currently awaiting processing; the measures being taken to reduce waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40962/26]
View answerWritten answers
The exchange of foreign licences is managed through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) the provision of which is delegated under national legislation to the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred this matter to the Authority for direct reply. Please contact my office if a reply is not provided within 10 working days.
There are various reasons for the length of time required to process foreign licence exchanges. For example, the driver may need to submit outstanding information, such as, a medical or eyesight report, or the physical driving licence itself in the case of an online application. The most common reason for delays is the NDLS awaiting verification of the driving licence from the other driving licence authority. At times a response is received very quickly but sometimes there can be considerable delays.
Vigilance is needed when processing a foreign licence for exchange 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. Road safety and keeping Irish roads safe for all road users remains the priority in this matter.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Bus Services
Questions (227)
John Connolly
Question:227. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the timeline for delivery of the Bus Connects Galway Network Redesign; when the proposed Oranmore–Galway bus service will be introduced; whether a direct service from Oranmore village to Galway city centre will be provided rather than routing via Parkmore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40982/26]
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 implementation of new bus routes.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct, detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten days.
Pending this detailed response, I note that the NTA plans to commence the implementation of the new Galway bus network in the coming years, subject to funding and operational readiness. As part of BusConnects, the NTA is also advancing work on the Cross-City Link, which will improve travel times on the bus network and enhance connections for pedestrians and cyclists. Other parts of the BusConnects programme, such as simpler fares, will be delivered with the new bus network.
The NDP Sectoral Investment Plan, which was published by my Department in November last year, has allocated funding to the NTA to progress BusConnects Galway. The NTA will publish a more detailed plan later this year setting out the elements of the programme to be advanced within the funding available.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Orders.
Rail Network
Questions (228)
John Connolly
Question:228. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport if Leap card ticketing will be extended to the Oranmore–Galway rail service; the reason this service is not currently included in the Leap card system, in contrast to similar commuter routes in Dublin and Cork; his plans to introduce integrated ticketing on this route; the timeline for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40983/26]
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 ticketing and technology projects.
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 ten days.
Rail Network
Questions (229)
John Connolly
Question:229. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Transport if Irish Rail has plans to increase capacity on peak morning services between Oranmore and Galway city; specifically, the 8am service, in light of reported overcrowding; whether additional carriages will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40984/26]
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
Departmental Communications
Questions (230)
Cian O'Callaghan
Question:230. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport whether his Department has received, or anticipates receiving, a formal information request from the European Commission Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport in connection with complaint (details supplied); the steps being taken to ensure his Department’s response accurately and fully reflects its obligations as a prescribed person under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 as amended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40986/26]
View answerWritten answers
Neither I nor my Department comment on individual Protected Disclosure cases, nor matters related with such cases such as a compliant as referenced, in order to protect both the integrity of those cases and the identity of reporting persons.
Any report of potential wrongdoing which is received by my Department is handled in accordance with its Protected Disclosures: Policies and Procedures, which align with both the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and with best practice guidelines such as those issued by my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.
These policies and procedures require that all such cases are addressed until they reach an appropriate conclusion under the Act.